291 ' 
325 



SEASON 



-OF 



187 



r 



To Southern 




r 



w 



bH 



Ot^Ofttt 



GUIDE 



SOUTHERN 



D 



n 



■ni n 



Ulil ^ i 



KJ 



RIDA 



CONTAINING A BRIEF DESCKIPTION Off 



POINTS OF INTEREST 



-TO THE — 



TOURIST, INVALID, OR IMMIGRANT, 



AND HOW TO REACH THEM. 



— PUBLISHED BY — 



General Passenger Department 

ATLANTIC AND GULF RAILROAD, 



ISSUED GRATUITOUSLY. 



FOURTH EDITION, 



SAVANNAH. GA. i 

MOBNINO NEWS 9T6AM PRlNTINO HOaM. 

1877. 



i±r 




1. 


- Planters Hotel. 


2. 


M.uUrl. 


3. 


-Pula>'..i House. 


4. 


-Custom House. 


5. 


City I'xcluinge. 


r.. 


rostoiricc. 


7. 


—Screven House. 


8. 


-M.Arsl..nll House. 


0. 


— Pavillion Hotel. 


10. 


— Tlic.Alre. 


11. 


—Oglethorpe Barracks. 


12. 


-New Cathedral. 


13. 


—Confederate Monument. 


11. 


-Pulaski Monument. 


IS. 


—Savannah W.itcr Works. 


IC. 


— Preslivterian Church. 


17. 


Lutheran Church. 


IS. 


-Melh.Hlist Church. 


n. 


—St. J )hn'» Church. 


CO. 


— Chrirt Church. 



1..I..' I. j,.lU.J..;.,!,i ' ' 




EXPLANATION 



Btre«t Cm Llact 




MAP OF TITE 

CITY OF SAVANNAH 



P*"-!, Avery .tfo.^lml 



^Wis. Hist SoG« 
In E-xch. 

If(DEX TO ADVEI|TISEMEf^TS, 



PAGE. 

Ferrell's European House. 6 

Florida Curiosities — A. S. Desbouillons 6 

Florida Curiosities— P. Linderstruth 8 

Cotton Exchange Restaurant and Cafe 8 

Screven House— R. Bradley 10 

Charleston Hotel- E. H. -Jackson & Co 10 

Pulaski House— R. Bradley 12 

Steamboat Line — Hart, Benham & Co 12 

Booksellers and Stationers — Ashmead Bros H 

U. S. Mail Line— H. L. Hart ! , 16 

Island House— R. H. Mcllvaim , 16 

Altamaha Hotel— R. Wall 18 

Livery Stables— Ainsworth & Finn , 20 

Microscopic Views— J. H. Morrow 20 

Real Estate Agent— S. A. Swann 22 

Sharon House— John Sharon 22 

Gulf House— G. W. Parnell 24 

Boarding House— Mrs. Hallowes , 24 

Florida and Vermont— F. H. Orvis 24 

•Billiard Saloon— Togni's 26 

Architect and Consulting Engineer— R. N. Ellis 26 

Liquors, Cigars, etc.— John B. Togni 26 

St. James Livery Stables— J. H. McGinnis 28 

Oclawaha River Steamers— H. S. Hart 28 

Riverside Institute — Mrs. Lucy E. Smith 30 

Stabl CvS— G. D . Griffin 30 

News and Curiosity Depot— C. V. Hess 30 

Magnolia Hotel— W. W. Palmer 32 

St. Augustine Hotel— E. E. Vail 34 

Private Boarding— Mrs. J. V. Hernandez 36 

Millinery and Fancy Goods — O. L. Keene 36 

Nurserymen — A. J. Beck & Son 38 

Ballard's Curiosity Store 40 

Real Estate— C. C. Collins 40 

How to Live in Florida , 42 

The Florida Dispatch 42 






C3;-XJIIDE3 



SOUTHERN 



JJLiU.. 



RGIA AND FLORIDA, 

1877-8. 



This is presented with the compliments of the Atlantic and 
•Gulf Railroad as their fourth Annual Guide to points of 
interest on their 

MAIN LTNE, 

•extending from Savannah to Bainbridge, Ga. , two hundred and 
thiity-seven miles. 

ALBANY DIVISION. 

Tjiomasyille, Ga., to Albany, Ga., fifty-eight miles. 

FLORIDA DIVISION, 
DuPoNT, Ga., to Live Oak, Fla., forty-eight miles, and their 
railway and steamship 

CONNECTIONS. 

(See Schedule.) 

Through cars from Savannah to Bainbridge, connecting with 
steamers on Flint and Chattahoochee rivers. 

Through cars from Savannah to Albany, connecting with 
through trains on Southwestern Division Central Railroad of 
Georgia to Macon, Atlanta, Eufaula, and via Montgomery and 
Eufaula Railroad to MoDtgomer}^ Ala., New Orleans and Louis- 
ville. 

Through trains via^ Main Line and Florida Division via Live 
Oak, connecting with trains on Jacksonville, Pen jacola and Mobile 
Railroad for Tallahassee, Quincy, Wakulla Springs and points in 
West Florida, in connection with Jacksonville, Pensacola and 
Mobile and Florida Central Railroads to Jacksonville, Fla., with- 
out change ; connecting at Baldwin, Fla., with trains on Atlantic, 
Gulf and West India Transit Company's Railway, making the 
most expeditious route to Fernandina, Gainesville, Cedar Key and 



4 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN aEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 

points on the Gulf Coast, and at Jacksonville with steamers for all 
points on St. John's and Ocklawaha rivers. 

Pullman Sleeping Cars from Savanoah to Jacksonville. 

Through Sbeping Cars between Jacksonville, Montgomery, Ala.^ 
and Atlanta, Ga., via Live Oak, Fla., Thomasville and Albany, Ga. 

' I THE EQUIPMENT 

of the line has been renewed and made first-class in every detai!^ 
and modern appliance, tending to the comfort and convenience of 
.invalids and the traveling public. 

THE TRACK,' 

renewed with steel rails, enables this line to make the fast mail 
schedules with a safet}'", certainty and comfort not heretofore 
attained. 

We trust the expenditure necessary to perfect this improvement 
in track and equipment may be justified by your patronage, which 
is respectfully solicited. 

The special attention of the tourist, sportsman, invalid and im- 
migrant is called to the many attractions, points of interest and 
advantages possessed by this section of coimtry, which we en-, 
deavor herein briefly to portray. 



GriDE TO SOUTHERN GEOHQIA AND FLORIDA. 



ST/TIOHS /ND POINTS OF INTEREST 

— ON THE — 

ATLANTIC & GULF RAILROAD. 



SAVANNAH, CHATHAM COUNTY, GA., 

The eastern terminus of the Road, is the principal city of the 
State, situated on river of same name, 18 miles from the sea, with 
a capacious and well-protected harbor, with from 17 to 21 feet of 
water at high and low tide. Improvements are now being made 
in the river with a view to obtaining depth sufficient for any vessel. 

Savannah has a population of from 30,000 to 32,000 inhabitants. 
It is the second largest cotton port in the United States, while its 
shipments of lumber and naval stores are immense. It is unques- 
tionably the handsomest city in the South. Laid out with broad 
streets, closely shaded by beautiful trees that are green the year 
round, it has justly obtained the soubriquet of the "Forest City." 

The city has ample transportation facilities : the Savannah and 
Charleston Railroad connecting Charleston and the North ; the 
Central (Georgia) to Augusta, Atlanta, and the North and West, 
while the Atlantic and Gulf Railroad opens up the rich and grow- 
ing sections of South Georgia and the whole State of Florida. 
There are three lines of first-class steamers making tri-weekly 
trips to New York, with semi-weekly lines to Baltimore, and 
weekly lines to Philadelphia and Boston. 

It has some manufacturing interests, viz : a cotton factory, 
cotton batting mill, paper mills, rice mills, foundries, machine 
shops and planing mills. 

The free school system is admirably arranged. Especial atten- 
tion has been given to its sanitary condition. Comparative state- 
ments shoAV it to be one of the healthiest cities in the South. The 
climate is better suited to some invalids than points furtlier South. 
With its excellent hotel accommodations, travelers will always 
find a sojourn here pleasant. 

Forsyth Park, 20 acres in area, is an attractive resort ; the 
2 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 

Wm. B. Ferrell's 

1 58 and i6o Bryan Street, Savannah, Ga. 



-crr^O^] 



The interior of this builling has been renovated throughout ; the furni- 
ture and upholstery being all new ; and the public can rely upon the best the 
market affords to eat or drink. 



TSRJVIS $2.00 PEf\^ E)^Y. 

Florida Ciriosities, -^ 



Wt^aiz^e f&an.ekf 



I SFkeLL and ^ikk S^cale 



^ea J^eanA. | y^ WELR Y 



Alligators' Teeth mounted in Sleeve 
Buttons, Ear Rings, Sets, etc. | ready made and to obdkr, ax THS 



ir^wncLisi' ^iir^iB!Liiimiiinr 



A. L. DESBOUILLONS 



31 BULili STREET, opposite Screven House, 

SAVANNAH, - - - - - GEORGIA. 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 7 

shade trees in it, composed mo.^tl/ of pines, a"e of the natural 
growth of the forest. In the centre is a beautiful fountain, after 
the style of those in the Place de la Concorde^ in Paris. The wialks 
are prettily arranged and covered with shell. 

In the rear of the Park is a large enclosure, known as the Parade 
Ground or Park Extension, which has been somewhat improved 
by planting shade trees, laying out walks, etc. The Confederate 
Monument^ recently erected here by the Ladies' Memorial Associa- 
tion, in point of beauty of design and finish, compares favorably 
with any in the South. The corner stone was laid on June 16th, 
1874, with Masonic ceremonies. Grand Master Irwin officiating, all 
the military force in the city being present. The monument was 
built after a design furnished by Mr. R. Reid, of Montreal, Canada. 
It stands about fifty feet in height, from base to crown of marble 
figure on top. On the corners are pedestals, each supporting a 
life-size marble statue of a soldier on guard. On the base of the 
pilasters are appropriate mottoes : on the front panel is a figure 
representing the South mourning ; the rear panel shows another 
figure of military character ; the side panels bear inscriptions : on 
one is "To the Confederate Dead;" on the other, "Come from 
the four winds, O Breath, and breathe upon these slain, that they 
may live." — Ezek. xxxii, 9. Above these panels, a cornice sup- 
ports figures representing "Peace and Hope;" above this is a 
statue representing "Silence." On the topmost panel rests the 
crowning figure of "Resurrection." The whole beautifully carved, 
and cost when completed $25,000. 

Bonaventure Cemetery, .3 miles from the city, only fifteen 
minutes' ride by the Coast Line Railroad, is one of the lovelrest 
spots in the country ; long avenues, arched by the branches of 
great live oak trees, from which an immense quantity of gray 
moss sweeps, adding much to the solemnity of the place. Bona- 
venture derives its name Irom the original tract of which it formed 
a part, and which was settled about 1 (J 70 by Colonel John Mulryne. 
By the marriage of his daughter in 1 761 to Josiah Tatnall, of 
Charleston, it came in possession of the latter family. This .mar- 
riage is said to have been the occasion of the planting of the trees 
which adorn the place. It is said that they were planted in the 
form of the letters M and T, the initials of the bride's and groom's 
respective family names. 

Thunderbolt, the terminus of the Coast Line Railroad, 4 miles 
from the city. 




GUIDE TO SOUTHEEN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 

Sea Beans, Orange Canes, Alligators' Teeth, and a 
General Variety of Shell Work, etc. 



-DEALER IN- 



itiiyiiiyiilt tiitiim ill. 

p. LINDERSTRUTH, No. 2 Jefferson Street, Sayaimali, Ga. 






(!^ 



iit))(^^iiiiii 







i 



/'q>» 



6 Dray ion Street and Bay Lane, 



SAVANNAH, 



GEORGIA. 



— -Furnished Rooms for Transient Guests.- 



John H. Freil. 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 9 

Isle of Hope and Montgomery, on the S., S. & S. E. R., distant 
7 and 10 miles respectively, are pleasant places of resort, much 
frequented by the citizens of Savannah. 

Tybee Island, at the mouth of the Savannah river and Eeach 
Hammock, several miles south, are becoming very prominent as 
seaside resorts. 

Fort Pulaski, on Cockspur Island, near the mouth of Savannah 
river, was the scene of a weary siege during the late war. The 
fort was badly battered up by the Federal guns from Tybee Island. 
Since the war it has been thoroughly repaired. 

MILLER'S, No. 1, 

Post Office, 

10 miles between stations : 10 miles from Savannah; 

Chatham county, Ga. ; 

Two miles west of Little Ogeechee river. Population 50. 

WAY'S, No. 1^. 
Post Office. 

6 miles between stations ; 15 miles from Savannah. 
Just east of this station the road crosses the Great Ogeechee river, 
on which are situated many of the largest rice fields in the State. 
At Genesis Point, below the railroad bridge. Fort McAllister is 
situated, which the Federal fleet made several unsuccessful at- 
tempts to pass, to capture the blockade runner "Rattlesnake," 
formerly the steamskip Nashville, which was lying above. They 
finally succeeded in sinking her. Fort McAllister was stormed 
from the rear, and captured by a portion of Sherman's army, 
December 20, ISGi. ■ 

FLEMING, No. 2. 
Liberty county. 
Post and Telegraph Offices. Population 50. 
9 miles between stations ; 24 miles from Savannah. 

Sunbury, 15 miles from here, on the coast, is one of the oldest set- 
tlements in the State. 

McINTOSH, No. 3. 

Liberty county. 

Post Office. Population 50. 

7 miles between stations ; 31 miles from Savannah. 
This is the nearest station to Flemington, distant 2^ miles; Hines— 
ville, the county town, 5 miles, and Riceboro 10 miles. 



10 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 



rev 






J 



iM'w^mmM.m^ ©^, 



R. BRADLEY, Proprietor. 



Hates of Board Eedaced to $2.50, $3 00, 
and $3.50 per Day. y 



n 



jnrr 
lllllljlj 




m 



I 



) 



Q'mM.^^mB'To 



Rates Reduced, $2.50, $3.00 and $4.00 per 
day, according to location of Room. 



E. H. JACKSON & CO., Proprietors, 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEOKGIA AND FLORIDA. 11 

WALTHOURVILLE, No. 4. 

Liberty county, 
Post Office. Population 500. 
7 miles between stations ; 38 miles from Savannah. 

The village of the same name, Ij miles from the station, is 
pleasantly located, and was formerly the home of many of the 
wealthy planters from tlie coast, and was noted for the intelligence 
and refinement of its society ; there are a few of the old families 
still residing there. 

JOHNSON, No. U. 

Mcintosh county. 

Post Office. Population 40. 

7 mil-es between stations ; 45 miles from Savannah. 
Six and a half miles west of this station, the road crosses the 
Altamaha river on a lattice bridge with four spans. This river is 
one of the largest in the State. It is formed by the junction of 
the Oconee and Ocmulgee rivers ; the former is navigable for 
steamers to Dublin, and the latter to Macon. Large quantities of 
lumber, etc., are shipped by this river to Darien, Ga., at its mouth, 
on the coast. 

DOCTORTOWN, No. 5. 

Wayne county. 

Elevation above mean low tide at Savannah 192 feet. 

Post Office. Population 75. 

8 miles between stations ; 53 miles from Savannah. 
This station is the site of an old Indian town, and the former 
abode of a celebrated ' 'medicine man ; " hence the name of the 
place. ' 

JESUP, No. 6, 

Wayne county. 
4 miles between stations ; 57 miles from Savannah ; 

County town; telegraph .office and junction of the Macon and 
Brunswick Eailroad ; 40 miles from Brunswick, and 146 from 
Macon. The new and commodious "Altamaha Hotel" here will 
accommodate 100 guests. The hotel is also the eating house for 
passengers via the Macon and Brunswick Railroad ; trains stop 
20 minutes for meals. A weekly paper, the Jesur) Sentinel, is 
published here. This place is growing rajDidly ; population 750. 



12 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 




ouse 



WMmmMw. 






©-m. 



This favorite Hotel having been recently leased by the subscriber, has had 
during the past two months liberal expenditures in painting, renovating and 
improvements, and is now open to the traveling public as a first-class hotel 
in all its appointments. Its extensive southward front offers great induce- 
ments to invalids and all others. 

Bates of Board, $2.50, $3.00 and $4.00 per Day, 

according to location and size of room. A reasonable discount made to parties 
remaining a week or longer. 

Avoid ;tlie Transfer at Palatka ! 



THROUGH BOAT 



mwmi, I 




J, 




Ml 



Hawkinsville, Lake Berresford, Yolusia, Palatka, St. 
Augustine, Green Cove and Way Landings on 

THE TJPPEE, ST. JOHN'S RIVER, 



— MAKING CLOSE CONNECTION — 



:e^c:>:e=l xisttdtj^jst :ri"v:h]i=l. 



W\ 



I'SMM. 



l^M^m^^^MT^ 



9 



Capt. L. M. COXETTER. Master, 



Xeaves Jachsonville, Fla., every MONDAY and THURSDAY MORNING, at 10 
• o'clock, (after arrival of Train). 

Bills of Lading and Railroad Receipts for freigbt delivered to Steamer's 
Agents, will receive prompt attention. 

HAET, BENHAM & CO., Agents. 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 13^ 

SCREVEN, No. 7. 

Post and Express Offices. Population 40. 

11 miles between stations ; 68 miles from Savannah ;, 

Wayne county, Ga. 

PATTERSON, No. 7|. 

Post Office. Population 37. 

10 miles between stations ; 78 miles from Savannah. 

On line of the road in vicinity of this place are located a number 

'of , steam saw mills for cutting yellow pine lumber. 

BLACKSHEAR, No. 8. 

Elevation above mean low tide at Savannah 127 feet. 

Post Office. 

8 miles between stations ; 86 miles from Savannah ; 

Pierce county ; 
Has about 1,000 inhabitants ; good churches and Sabbath schools ; 
good day schools. Is destined to be the great stopping point for 
Northern travel for those seeking health, and specially in search of 
good winter homes in the South. Society is good ; there is more 
evidence at this point of a good steady and permanent growth than 
at any place between Savannah and Blackshear. It is in the great 
pine belt of Georgia. Land in this section is slightly rolling, 
hence it is well drained ; in fact, for persons desirous of homes 
where they can have a climate free from the dampness so preva- 
lent on the coast, and where they can live cheaply on small in- 
comes, this is the place. Climate delightful eight months in the 
year. It surpasses Aiken or Eastman ; in fact, will compare 
favorably with many sections of California for purity of atmos- 
phere and health. Lands can be bought for twenty-five cents per 
acre within five miles of the town. Lots very reasonable ; almost 
no taxes. The great point at the present time is that our State 
debt is small ; neither the county nor town have bonds, and it has 
been remarked that there is not a house mortgaged. We believe 
this to be very nearly correct — we do not know of one in the 
place. What other place has this record ? People are industrious, 
frugal, and any information desired will be given with pleasure by 
addressing L. H. Greenleaf, Blackshear, Ga. 

Hotels. — Brown's, recently built, will accommodate 70 to 100. 
Board per day, $2.00 ; per week, $6.00 ; per month, $20.00. 
Knowles' House will accommodate about 30. We do not know" 
of a better location than Blackshear for a fine, large, well-man- 



14 



GUIDE TO SOUTHEEN GEORGIA AND FLOEIDA. 



(Recently wiili J. B. Lsppincott & Co., Philadelphia), 

33 West Bay Street, Jacksonville, Fla., 



Wliolesale and. Retail 



BOOKSBLLEES, STATIOHERS. 

And. Dealers in 



BLANK BOOKS. 

Reading" Books, School Books, Toy Books and Games, Chromos, 

Mottoes, Photographs, Scrap Books and Pictures, Sunday 

School Cards, Visiting^ Cards, Card Cases. 



Pocket Books, Alhums, Papeteries, Pen Kniyes, Gilt and 
Yelvet Frames, Slates, Satchels and Straps. 

phhttehs' supplies. 

Alphabet Blocks, Playing^ Cards, Tag's, Gold Pens and Pencils. 
Writing Desks, Lead Pencils, Slate Pencils, Indelible Pencils. 






l?Ei3 



Writing", Indelible and Stencil Inks, Etc., Etc., Etc. 

ARTISTS' OIL COLORS AND MATERIALS. 



Orders 'by Wail JProwiptly Attended tOc 
TERMS STRICTLY CASH. 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 15 

aged hotel, specially for the accommodation of Northern travel 
during winter months, being located on the only Trunk Line be- 
tween the North and South from Savannah, (if you go all rail you 
must pass over the Gulf Railroad), hence could some capitalist, 
interested in hotels, be induced to build a hotel that would accom- 
modate 500 to 1,000 guests and have it well managed, we think it 
would be kept filled during the season. 

WAY CROSS, 
Ware county, Ga. ; 96 miles from Savannah ; county town ; post 
office. Population 600. Junction of Brunswick and Albany 
Railroad, 60 miles from Brunswick and 111 miles from Albany. 
This town was laid out in 1872 ; it stands on a sandy ridge with a 
clay sub-soil, and a clear bold stream of running water on the 
south. From its advantageous position this bids fair to become a 
place of some note. 

TEBEAUVILLE, No. 9. 

Elevation above mean low tide at Savannah 14 1 feet. 

Post and Telegraph Offices, Population 92. 

I mile between stations ; 97 miles from Savannah. 
This is a place near the northern portion of the celebrated Okef e- 
nokee Swamp, which abounds with game of all descriptions. 

GLENMORE, No. 10. 
Post Office. 

II miles between stations ; 108 miles from Savannah ; 

Ware county, Ga. 

ARGYLE, No. 10^. 

8 miles between stations ; 116 miles from Savannah ; 

Clinch county, Ga. 

HOMERVILLE, No. 11. 

Elevation above mean low tide at Savannah 179 feet. 

Post Office. 

6 miles between stations ; 122 miles from Savannah ; 

County town ; Clinch county, Ga. Population 350. Academy^ 

Methodist and Baptist churches. 



16 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 



mamj iMmm. 




Fernandina to Traders Hill, 

ON 

ST» 'MM.MT'-'B m'^^M 

VIA DUNGENESS AND ST. MARY'S 
All Tourists should visit these noted places of interest. 

H. L. HART, Proprietor. 
H. Gr. BILLINGS, Agent, Fernandina. 




Cedar Key, Fla. 



The proprietor of this house, encouraged by the liberal patronage of the 
past, has spared no effort, to promote the comfort of his guests. 

The Hotise, since last Winter, has been thoroughly repaired and its in- 
terior arrangements so changed as to provide good parlors and smoking room. 

Reading room well supplied from the exchange list of Fla. State Journal. 

Cedar Key, Fla., September 1, 1877. 



Sl©i 






m. 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 17 

MAIN LINE— WESTERN DIVISION. 

DuPONT, No. 12. 
Elevation above mean low tide at Savannah 185 feet. 
Post and Telegraph Offices. Population IS^t. 
8 miles betweeif stations ; 130 miles from Savannah ; 

Clinch county, Ga. Junction with the Florida Division of the 
Atlantic and Gulf Kailroad. Located on heavy timbered pine 
lands. The health of DuPont and surrounding country is unpar- 
alleled ; no typhoid or other miasmatic sickness. As a farming 
country it is prono. meed by experience 1 planters to be superior 
to Virginia or Carolina ; the range is good for cattle and hogs. 
Cheap lands in abundance for emigrants, much of it from ;fifty 
cents to one dollar per acre. « 

STOCKTON, No. 13. 

Post Office. 

8 miles between stations ; 138 miles from Savannah ; 

Clinch county, Ga. Population 145. Village pleasantly located 

in an elevated pine region. 

NAYLOR, No. 14. 
Post Office. 
G miles between stations ; 144 miles from Savannah ; 

Lowndes county, Ga. Population 96. One church, one hotel, one 
academy, one saw mill, and three stores. Healthy locality. Lands 
sell from $1.00 to ^^O") per acre. The productions of surround- 
ing country are long and short cotton, corn, rice, oats, sweet 
potatoes, sugar cane, and all kinds of vegetables. The Alapaha 
river, two miles distant, abounds in fish. Milltown, a village ten 
miles distant and near the famous Banks Mill Pond ; area of pond 
ten square miles ; water sufficient to drive a large amount of 
machinery. Nashville, county seat of Berrien county, twenty- 
seven miles distant ; excellent section for farming, hog, sheep and 
cattle raising. 

VALDOSTA, No. 15. 
Elevation above mean low tide at Savannah 205 feet. 
13 miles between stations ; 157 miles from Savannah ; 

A flourishing town of about 2,000 inhabitants, is the county town 
of Lowndes county. The town is eligibly situated and neatly 
laid oif. Residence lots can be had at reasonable rates, ;0r 
at about f 100 for acre lots. The store houses are mo?tlv of 
3 



18 



GUIDE TO SOUTHEEN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 



Altamato Motel 




■ > ■ 

This well-known Hotel, at the junction of the Atlantic and 
Gulf, and Macon and Brunswick Railroads, is now under the 
management of 

:vLi=L. .A.. ■^7VJ^I-.I_., 

former assistant manager, and hopes that this statement will be 
a sufficient guarantee to the traveling public, that it will be con- 
ducted to the satisfacdon of those who may patronize it either 
as an eating house or hotel. 

The house has 33 well-furnished rooms (including Billiard 
Saloon), and offers comforts not surpassed by any similar estab- 
lishment in the South. 

Visitors to and from Florida, or those seeking a warm and 
healthy climate, with light expenses, will find this place a most 
desirable relay. 

Board by the week or month can be obtained on reasonable 
terms, upon applicaiton to the Manager. 

All Passenger Trains on both Uoads stop here and allow ample time 
for meals. 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 19 

brick, as is the Court House. There are four churches, Baptist, 
Methodist, Pre3b3'"terian and Christian; several schools, one well- 
kept hotel, one banking house, and one weekly newspaper — 
Valdosta Times— in the place. The surrounding country is fertile, 
and produces all the crops grown in this section of the i^outh, 
though cotton is chiefly relied upon as a money-making product, 
there being 6,600 bales shipped last season. The trade of the 
place is remunerative and supports some twenty stores, engaged in 
general merchandise. Good farming lands in the vicinity can be 
had at from -f 1.00 to $5.00 per acre, depending upon improve- 
ments and location. Valdosta and the surrounding country is re- 
markably healthy. There exists no local cause for malaria or 
fever. The winters are mild and pleasant. Provisions being 
abundant, the cost of living is comparatively low. Board can be 
obtained in town at from f 15 to $25 per month. To parties seek- 
ing investments in lands or permanent homes in the Sonth, or a 
place to spend the winter, Valdosta presents many inducements. 

Name of hotel — Stuart's Railroad House, C. T. Stuart, pro- 
prietor ; location of house, opposite the depot ; accommodations 
for 50 persons. 

Rates per day $ 2 00 

" per week 10 00 

" per month 20 00 to 30 00 

Reduced rates for families per day, week, or month. 

OUSLEY, No. 15^. 
9 miles between stations ; 166 miles from Savannah ; 

Post Office; Population 100. 
Lowndes county, Ga. One and a half miles west of this station 
the road crosses the Withlacoochee river, near which is the Boston 
or Blue Springs. These springs have quite a reputation, and are 
much frequented by the people of the adjacent country. 

QUITMAN, No. 16. 

Elevation above mean low tide at "^avannah 183 feet. 
8 miles between stations ; 174 miles from Savannah ; 

Post, Money-Order, and Telegraph Offices ; 
Brooks county, Ga. ; county town. Population 1,750. This is a 
place of considerable importance, surrounded by a very fertile 
country, entirely free from malaria, it offers many inducements to 
immigrants. The lands being of good quality, can be bad at from 
$1.00 to $20,00 per acre, in quantities to suit purchasers. In 



20 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEOE(JIA AND FLORIDA. 

AIN8W0RTH & FINN 



5 



A Sale, and I^jV 







Thomasville, Ga. 



Good lot of HORSK^ and MIJLBS on Iiand at all tintes. 

Fine turnouts and careful and accommodating drivers. 

A FEATURE FOR JACKSONVILLE. 



THE W HOLE TOWN IN A SEA BEAN. 

"The only Studio of the kind in the United States." 

J. H. MORROW. 

[Formerly of 661 Broadway, New York, and 100 Broadway, Saratoga, now 

Established at] 

No. 63 BAY STREET, JACKSONVILLE, FLA., 

"Where he has all the facilities for producing this wonderfully beautiful 

Photograph wor!k. 

MICROSCOPIC PORTRAITURE AND VIEWS 

In Gold Charms, Canes, Sea Beans, Alligator Teeth, etc. Life Sittings made. 
Copies from cards and pictures. From one to fifty persons photographed in a, 
space no larger than the eye of a needle, combined with a powerful Microscope, 
and set in Finger Ring, Bosom Pin, Charm, etc. A sample of any view 
wanted sent for 60 cents to any address. 

J. H. MOKROW. 

Microscopic Studio, 63 Bay St,, Jacksonville, Fla. 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 21 

Quitman is located a cotton and wool factory with a paid up capi- 
tal of $46,000. There are five churches— three white and two 
colored ; also a flourishing school. There is published a weekly 
paper, the Reporter. Seven miles east from Quitman, in said 
county, is a large, bold limestone spring about one hundred feet 
in circumference and fifteen feet in its deepest part. This is quite 
a resort as a watering place, there being near, just across the county 
line, but within a few hundred yards, a fine sulphur spring of 
efficacious medicinal qualities. 

DIXIE, No. 17. 

7 miles between stations ; 181 miles from Savannah ; 

Post and Express Offices ; 

Brooks county, Ga ; population 159 ; Grooverville 6 miles distant. 

BOSTON, No. 18. 
7 miles between stations ; 188 miles from Savannah ; 

Post and Express Offices ; 
Thomas county, Ga. ; 9 miles from the Florida line ; 1 mile from 
the Aucilla creek ; 2 miles from Piscola creek. Population 450. 
Masonic Lodge and Patrons of Husbandry. Five churches in this 
place, Baptist, Presbyterian and Methodist, colored Baptist and 
Methodist ; also good male and female schools. Boston is pleas- 
antly situated and extremely healthy. Water good, in wells, and 
plenty of spring water in the incorporate limits. Boston is en- 
tirely surrounded by the best average farming lands in the State ; 
very productive of corn, peas, potatoes, oats, highland rice, sugar 
cane and cotton, and admirably adapted to fruit, where cultivated, 
especially grapes, pears, peaches, plums, apples and tropical fruits. 
The very finest watermelons abound in all parts of the country in 
their season. These lands can be bought at prices ranging from 
f 5.00 to $8.00 per acre for improved,, and from $1.50 to $4.00 per 
acre for grazing. 

THOMASVILLE, No. 19. 
Elevation above mean low tide at Savannah 290 feet. 
12 miles between stations ; 200 miles from Savannah. 

This flom'ishiug town is situated 200 miles from Savannah on the 
line of the Atlantic and Gulf Railroad, and at the Junction of the 
Albany Division A. & G. Railroad. It is the county town of Thomas 
county, one of the most progressive and prosperous counties in 
the State. Population 3,500. The town is an important and rapidly ' 
growiug commercial centre. It has a thriving trade, and is with- 



22 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA. AND FLORIDA. 




^t) 



^ener-al Heal mate_Age^,^^ 




Land Commissioner for the Florida Land and 

Immigration Company, 
Fernandina, - - Floi\ida. 

Tourists and intending settlers should not fail to visit 
Feniandina, as well as the excellent lands and beautiful lakes 
on line of Transit Railway. Here will be found the most 
successful truck farmers in the State, and also the most prom- 
ising settlements made by men from the North and West. 



JOHIT SHAROI, Prop. 




Bainbridge, Ga. 



The SHARON HOUSE is situated directly on the Public Square, and in the 
business center of the city. The brick portion of the house, has been recent- 
ly erected ; is three stories high, and has thirty-five rooms all plastered, and 
finished in the most approved style. The rooms are large, well furnished, 
and well constructed for winter uses, nearly all of them having fire-places. 

The proprietor of the Sharon House is determined to make it one of th« 
most pleasant and desirable houses in this section, for the people of the North 
and West to spend the winter at. The table is always supplied with the best 
the market affords, and during the winter season, we have fresh fish and 
oysters from Apalaohicola, Pla., second to nou3 in the world, and wild game 
of diffaraat varieties. The Bainbridge post-oflfice is a money order ofl&ce, with 
daily mail. 

TERMS-$2.00 PER DAT, $10.00 PER WEEK. 

40^ Special rates given to families. Address for further information, 

JOHN SHARON, Proprietor, Bainbridge, Ga. 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 23 



• 



out exception one of the most promising and flourishing towns in 
the State. It is situated on one of the highest points between the 
Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Afexico. It is but sixty miles to 
the Gulf, being in latitude 30 degrees, 40 north, and longtitude 
8 degrees, 40 east. The refreshing breezes from the Gulf come 
wafted inland through an almost unbroken pine forest, bringing 
healing on their wings. The natural drainage of the town is per- 
fect. The South Georgia Agricultural and Mechanical Association 
hold two fairs at this place every year ; one in the spring and one 
in the fall. There are two collegiate institutions : Young Female 
College and Fletchfjr Institute ; the latter a high grade male school. 
There are four churches, viz : Methodist, Baptist, Presbyterian 
and Episcopal. A public library and museum is another attrac- 
tion. There are to be found all the standard works, both ancient 
and modern ; all the leading dailies "and an interesting collection 
of natural curiosities. Two papers are published here. The 
Thomasville Times and Southern Enterprise. Last winter Messrs. 
Fabyan & Co., of White Mountains, N. H., opened the magnifi- 
cent hotel lately erected at this place. The first season of the 
^'Mitchell House" demonstrated the popularity of the place as a 
winter resort for Northern invalids. This splendid hotel is kept in 
elegant style ; in fact, is second to none in the South. 

The society and morals of the place are excellent, and strangers 
coming from whatever section they may, are invariably treated 
with great cordiality by all classes of citizens. The lands in 
Thomas county are highly productive, and can be bought at from 
one to ten dollars per acre. Labor can be secured at from five to 
eight dollars per month. 

Hotels. — Gulf House ; G. W. Parnell, proprietor ; location of 
house, opposite passenger depot. 
Rates per day f 2.00 

" per week. 10.00 

*' per month 35.00 

Reduced rates for families per day, week or month. 

Mitchell House.— This house is furnished throughout with black 
walnut furniture ; fire places in every room ; ventilation perfect ; 
lighted throughout with gas ; billiard hall, bath room and Lair- 
dressing rooms connected with the house. 

The managers will aim to promote the comfort and amusement 
of the guests and all strangers, come from where they may. 



24 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 



Near Passenger Depot, 




This House is the regular " Eating House" for all Passenger trains. Th e 
4able shall be equal to any in the South. Give us a call, and we guarantee 
satisfaction in every particular. 

Polite and attentive Porters at every train. 

Geo. W. Parnell, Prop, 



MRS. HALLOWE'S 



Remington Landing and Post Office, twenty-eight miles from 
Jacksonville, St. John's river, east side, opposite Magnolia, 
iiaving view of river fom- and a-half miles northward by ten or 
more southward, including Green Cove Springs and Hibernia. 
Mails daily. Eooms large, with fire place ; wide piazzas on all 
sides ; walks shady and extensive ; a comfortable and quiet home. 

ELOIIBA AlB YEIMOIT, 



m 



niD 



E POIii HO 



"1 (St. John's River.) Open from Nov- 

J ember to May. PALATKA, FLORIDA. 

1 Address by Mail or Telegraph, F. H. 

UJ ORVIS. 



m 



,11 





^ (Foot of Mt. Equinox.) Open from 

I June to October. MANCHESTER, 

1 VT. Address by Mail or Telegraoh, 

1J| F. H. ORVIS. 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 25 

Terms— $3.00 per day; $13 to $21 per week, according to size 
and location of rooms. The table will be supplied with all of the 
delicacies to be obtained from local as well as the Savannah and 
New York markets. 

A new livery, to suit the wants of Northern people, will afford 
invalids and others ample opportunity of enjoying the fine drives 
in the neighborhood, which are not equaled in any Southern city, 
and are hardly surpassed in the North. Good saddle horses are to- 
be had, all at very reasonable rates. 

CA.IRO, No. 20. 

Thomas county. 

Post Office. Population 300. 

14 miles between stations ; 214 miles from Savannah. 

-WHIGHAM, No. 21. 
7 miles between stations ; 221 miles from Savannah ; 

This desirable location is on the line of the Atlantic and Gulf 
Kailroad ; 221 miles from Savannah, 20 miles from Thomasville 
and about half way between that place and Bainbridge. It is- 
very pleasantly situated on high rolling land ; is remarkable for 
its freedom from the malarial diseases which infest many localities 
in the Southern country. The healthfulness of the place is un- 
surpassed. The water is unequaled in this region, both on account 
of its abundance and quality. A never-failing spring, equal in 
its character to the far-famed water of the hill country, is near 
the depot, discharging daily ten thousand gallons of pure, cold^ 
freestone water. The town is regularly laid out and incorporated^ 
containing two good boarding houses, six stores, two churches, a 
good academy, post office and express office. Two miles west is 
a large turpentine orchard and distillery. The land around this- 
place is well adapted to agricultural purposes — both pine and 
hammock — lies well, and is of full average grade of fertility, with 
the Southern country. It surpasses any region around as a fruit 
growing section. It is convenient to Thomasville, Bainbridge, and 
other central points, with the advantages of better water, more room 
and lower priced lands ; the latter range in price from one to eight 
dollars per acre. Six miles north is a remarkable natural curiosity,, 
known as the " Lime Sink, " where a creek suddenly falls over a 
perpendicular precipice, descending into the bowels of the earth 
about 100 feet. It then disappears mysteriously under the ground. 
This channel has been explored for a distance of two hundred 



26 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 

BILUAHBBALO 

SEVElSr ISTE^W TA.BLES! 

A FIRST-OLASS BAR, 

WITH CHOICE LIQUORS, WINES AND CIGARS. 

BAY STEEET, JACKSONVILLE, PLA. 
Under Metropolitan Opera House, opposite Post Oifioe. 

R. N. ELLIS, 



AKCMITlCf 



CO]N[SULTING E]HGINEEf\, 



lo. 8 West Bay St., 



p. D. Box •784. Jacksonville, Fla, 

JOHN B. TOGNI, 

CHOICE LIQUORS, IMPOBTED WINES, PORTER, ALE. 

Lager Beer and Bass' Ale on Draught, 
CHOICE HAVANA L DOMESTIC CIGARS, 

TOBj\.CCO, Etc., 

Under Metropolitan Opera House, { J ACIlSOIl Y ILLS, FLA. 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 27 

yards from the point of its wonderful disappearance ; further ex^ 
ploration prevented by coming upon a large river, which stops- 
progress. Col. L. O. Jackson has a valuable mill in operation 
there doing an extensive business. About two miles from the 
Lime Sink is another remarkable natural curiosity, called the 
"Blowing Cave." Through an opening in the earth nearly twelve^^ 
inches in diameter, a strong current of air is ever passing. During 
the morning or first half of the day this air escapes from the 
opening, but throughout the afternoon, or latter part of the day, 
the direction of the current is reversed, and is drawn into the 
opening by some unseen power of suction, said to be sufficiently 
strong to draw into this cave a handkerchief or any other light 
body. 

This village offers to the emigrant, seeking a desirable and econ- 
omical location, very superior advantages and inducements. 

CLIMAX, No. 22. 

Post Office. 

Decatur county. 

6 miles between stations ; 227 miles from Savannah. 

BAINB RIDGE, No. 23. 
Elevation above mean low tide at Favannah 119 feet. 
9 miles between stations ; 236 miles from Savannah ; 

Decatur county, Ga. ; the present western terminus of the Atlantic 
and Gulf Railroad ; telegraph office ; county town. Populatiort 
1,800, Situated on the east bank of the Flint river, about fifty miles- 
above the stream, beautifully shaded with oaks : average annual 
temperature 65 ; healthful, and climate in winter particularly 
favorable to the Northern invalid. This place does a thriving: 
business with the various landings on the Flint, Chattahoochee and 
Apalachicola rivers. Steamboats, making semi- weekly trips on 
these rivers, bring a large amount of cotton to Bainbridge for 
shipment to Savannah. The Weekly Democrat is published here. 

Name of house — Sharon House ; Jno. Sharon, proprietor ; loca- 
tion \ mile from depot ; accommodations for 75 persons. 

Rates per day $ 2.00 

" per week 10.00- 

" per 'month 30.00 

Rates very low for families per day, week or month ; reductions- 
per month. Rates for horse and buggy, $1.50 per day ; for hunt- 
ers very low rates. 



28 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 

ST. JAMES 



LiYEi\Yj Sale AND Commission 




Jacksonville, - Jr^lorida. 
J. H. McGINISTIS, P'roprietor. 

jg^ HORSES AND MULES on hand and for sale at all times. Specia 
attention given to buying and selling on commission. 



D 



ALLY LINE 



aw 



LEAVE 
DAILY, FOR THE 



Tourists and Pleasure seekers will find this the most novel and interesting 
trip in the South. 

II. &, M^iiTj Ptop. 

For Pine Florida Oranges for shipment to any part of the United 
States apply to H. S. HART, PALATKA. 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 29 

ALBANY DIVISION. 

THOMASVILLE, No. 19. 
(See Main Line, Western Division.) 

OCHLOCKONEE, F. 

Post and Express Offices. Population 39. 
11 miles between stations ; 211 miles from SavanDah ; 

Thomas county, Ga. v\ itliin 2^ miles is the finest water power in 
South \yest Georgia, amply sufficient for a cotton factory. Within 
five miles is a fine mineral spring ; it is large and perfectly trans- 
parent, beautifully situated, and with a small outlay of capital 
could be made a popular summer resort ; it is situated opposite the 
216 mile post and about 500 yards from the line of road. The 
health of the place cannot be surpassed. 

PELHAM, G. 

Elevation above mean low tide at Savannah 368 feet. 
Population 86. 
13 miles between stations; 221 miles from Savannah ; 

Mitchell county, Ga. This section of coantry offers superior in- 
ducements to manufacturers of naval stores. Timber plentiful 
and convenient to line of railroad. Only one man engaged in the 
business here. I lenty of room for more. Hands are easily had 
that understand working the trees, such as cutting boxes, hacking, 
etc. 

CAMILLA, H. 

Elevation above mean low tide at Savannah 175 feet 
Telegraph Office. 
8 miles between stations ; 232 miles from Savannah ; 

Mitchell county, Ga. ; county town. This is a pleasant little vil- 
lage, well located in a fine cotton growing country. Population 
800. 

BACONTON, L 

Mitchell county. 
Post Office. Population 14. 
10 miles between stations ; 242 miles from Savannah. 

HARDAWAY, J. 

Dougherty county. 

Post Office. 

8 miles between stations ; 250 miles from SavannaH 

4 



30 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 



JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA. 



A Mrst=Class Home School for GM^ 



ADVANTAGES : 

An experience, by the Principal, of more than twenty years in the care and 
training of girls ; a beautiful healthy location ; home care and comforts. 

Send for Circular. 

Mrs. LUCY E. SMITH, Principal. 

Refekences :— Solon Robinson, Esq., Jacksonville. Fla.; Milo P. Jewett, 
L.L.D., Milwaukee, Wis.; Rev. J. H. DeVotie, D.D., Atlanta, Ga.; Rev. W. J. 
Tucker, D.D., Pastor Madison Av. Church, New York; Rev. J. B. Brackett, 
D.D., Lynn, Mass.; Rev. E. G. Robinson, D.D., President Brown University, 
Providence, R. I. 




bainbhid&e, 



i^° Pleasure Carriages, Phaetons, and Wagons, with careful 
Drivers always on hand. 

C. V. HESSIS^ 




Special Ticket Agent Florida Central Railroad to all parts of 
the United States. 

GIVE HIM A CALL. 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 



31 



ALBANY, K. 

Telegraph and Post Offices. 
8 miles between stations ; 258 miles from Savannah. 

Dougherty county, Ga. ; terminus of tie Albany Division of 
Atlantic and Gulf Kailroad, and conn-^cted with Macon, Ga , by a 
branch railroad from Smithville to Arlington, lOG miles from Ma- 
con ; with Brunswick by the Brunswick and Albany Railroad. 
County town. Population 3,500. From the central location of this 
town, it bids fair to become a prosperous city. Surrounded by the 
best cotton lands of the State, quite a trade is done in this staple. 
There are several foundries and mills here which do a good busi- 
ness, 

FLOEIDA DIVISION. 

DuPONT, No. 12. 

(See Main Line, Western Division.) 

STATENVILLE, B. 

Post Office. Population 27. 

20 miles between stations ; 150 miles from Savannah ; 

Echols county, Ga. ; county town of the same name,. distant 6 

miles. Six miles south of this station the road crosses the boundary 

line between Georgia and Florida. 

JASPER, C. 
Population 260. 
13 miles between stations ; 163 miles from Savannah. 

Hamilton county, Fla.; county town. Town fast improving ; three 
ginning establishments ; two steam saw mills ;" nine stores. Pas- 
sengers for the White Sulphur Springs can get conveyances from 
this point. Four post offices are supplied from this point, viz : 
Bellville, Jennings, Ancrura and White Sulphur Springs. 

MARION, D. 

Jasper county^ Fla. 

5 miles between stations ; 168 miles from Savannah. 

SUWANNEE. 
5 miles between stations ; 172 miles from Savannah ; 

Suwannee county, Fla. ; 90 miles from Jacksonville and 89 miles 
from Tallahassee, the capital of the State. One mile east from 
this station, on the south bank of the Suwannee river, are situated 
the Lower Mineral Fprings, which attained great popularity pre- 
vious to the war as a watering place, being visited by a great many 



82 



GUIDE TO SOUTHEEN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 




L J-. i 



V T V V 




ST. AUGUSTINE, FLA., 



w.w 




p^p^or=>:E=Li:E:iTor=L. 



(During the past * summer the Magnolia has 
been enlarged to accommodate double its form^er 
capacity. Suits of rooms have been arranged 
for the special convenience of fafnilies. 

The springs^ beds, mattresses, etc., have been 
specially selected for comfort and ease. Each 
room is supplied with electric call bells, and 
nearly all the rooms are furnished with fire 
places, etc. Its new dining=room is capable of 
seating about two hundred guests. The cuisine 
will continue to be in every respect unexception= 
able. 

The Magnolia is located upon St. George 
street — the Fifth Avenue of St. Augustine. It 
stands upon the highest ground in the city, and 
affords a fine view of the town and ocean. 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 33 

persons from Southwestern Georgia and Middle Florida. The 
lands on the Hamilton county side of the Suwannee, north of the 
springs, are very valuable for agricultural purposes ; those on the 
Suwannee county side are light pine lands, and consequently not 
so valuable. 

RIXFORD. 

3 miles between stations ; 175 miles from Savannah ; 

Suwannee county, Fla. ; 86 miles from Jacksonville, and 87 miles 
from Tallahassee. This is a new settlement, and the point at 
which the Eagle Turpentine and Naval Store Manufactory is loca- 
ted, the largest of the kind in Florida. 

LIVE OAK, E. 
4 miles between stations ; 179 miles from Savannah ; 

Suwannee county, Fla. ; 82 miles irom Jacksonville and Talla- 
hassee; the junction of the Florida branch of the Atlantic and 
Gulf Railroad with the Jacksonville, Pensacola and Mobile Rail- 
road ; the county town of Suwannee county; population by census 
of 1870, 805 whites, 591 colored; takes its name from the live oak 
tree which was a celebrated land mark with the hunters in the early 
settlement of this portion of the State from 1824 until it was se- 
lected by the engineers in locating the branch road as the starting 
point to connect with the Georgia system. The live oak tree, which 
marked the sink and gave to it the name, is now dead, having been 
destroyed by the rising of the water in the sink, caused by the 
railroad embankment, which obstructed the drainage. Western 
Union Telegraph station, post office, and agency of the Southern 
Express. Truck farming is carried on extensively at this point, 
and large quantities of vegetables are shipped to the Forthern 
and Northwestern cities every season There are two hotels, 
a saw mill, three cotton gins, two grist mills, and a rosin and tur- 
pentine manufactory. 



JUNCTION WITH JACKSONVILLE, PENSA- 
COLA AND MOBILE EAILKOAD. 

This road traverses the northern portion of the State, from 
Chattahoochee river to Jacksonville, distance 209 miles, with 
branches to Monticello and St. Marks, connecting at Live Oak 
with Florida Di^asion of the Atlantic and Gulf Railroad, for all 
pomts North and West, and at Baldwin with the Atlantic, Gulf 



34 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 

E. JEJ. 'VA.ILIj, (proj)-rtetor, 

^L KwKMnihm Hotel 




THfS NEW AND ELEGANT HOTEL 

mil m m mmm o? gijEsis dec. isi 

This House has been more than doubled in size, and is now 




A Dining Room, 60x103 feet has been added, which seats 450 
people. Bath rooms added, etc. 

Tlie Drainage of the House has been made thorough by a Civil 
Engiaeer, and is now perfect. Dining Room and Ground Floor 
heated by steam. Over 1,000 feet of southerly and easterly 
Piazzas. 

The Hotel has 200 feet southerly front (facing the Plaza) and 
160 feet easterly front, and has au unsurpassed view of the City 
of St. Augustine, the Old Fort, the Ocean, and Harbor of St. 
Augustine, etc. 

The Proprietor has furnished the Hotel this year, and has 
made arrangements to secure his marketing from the North, and 
will endeavor to make this Hotel the best in the State. 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 35 

and West India Transit Company's Kailroad for Fernandina, 
Gainesville and Cedar Keys. 

LIVE OAK. 

(See Florida Division Atlantic and Galf Railroad.) 

WEST WARD.— ELL iVILLE. 

Madison county. 

Post and Telegraph Offices. 

13 miles between stations ; 13 miles from Live Oak. 

Situated on the ^est bank of the Suwannee river, at its junction 
with the Withlacoochee, it is admirably adapted to the lumber 
business, in which Messrs. Drew & Bucki, the founders of the 
place, are entensively engaged, they having several large mills in 
the vicinity. 

MADISON. 

Madison county. 
15 miles between stations ; 28 miles from Live Oak. 

Telegraph office ; county town. Population 1,000 Located in 
a fertile region of country. Considerable early vegetables and 
fruits are raised here. Several lakes in the vicinity abound with 
fish. 

GREENVILLE. 

Madison county. 

14 miles between stations ; 42 miles from Live Oak. 

AUCILLA. . 

Jefferson county. 
7 miles between stations ; 49 miles from Live Oak. 

DRIFTON. 
7 miles between stations ; 56 miles from Live Oak. 

Connection is here made twice a day with Monticello by a branch 
road; distance 4 miles. Monticello is a pleasant village of 1,200 
inhabitants ; telegraph office. Lake Miccosukie, not far distant, 
is a place of some historical note. The Constitution, a weekly 
paper, is published here. 

LLOYD'S. 

Jefferson county. 

9 miles between stations ; 65 miles from Live Oak. 

CHAIRES. 

Leon county. 
6 miles between stations ; 71 miles from Live Oak. 



•S6 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 




This house is a new one, and newly furnished throughout, and 
will accommodate about forty guests. Is situated on Chailotte 
Street, two doors from the corner of Treasur}'- Street, and one 
block from the "Plaza." 

A very pleasant location, and well fitted for the comfort of 
visitors. 

Persons desiring to find a comfortable home to spend the winter 
in ST. AUGUSTINE will find it with the congeniel, warm-hearted 
hostess, Mrs. J. V. Hernandsz, who for the past nine years has 
:given entire satisfaction. 

O3 i, KEENE, 
Millinery, Fancy and Dress Goods, 

No. 67 West Bay St., Cor. of Laura, Jacksonville, Fla., 

Has now in stock a fine line of Millinery Goods, including Pat- 
tern Hats, Flowers, Feathers, Eibbons, etc., Ladies' and Gents' 
Silk and Linen Handkerchiefs, Lace and Silk Scarfs and Ties, 
Dress Goods, including Silks, Cashmeres, Alpacas, Dammase and 
Suitings of the most fashionable shades, with Fringes and Trim- 
mings to match ; a fine line of Kid Gloves, real Hair, Lace Cur- 
tains, BERGMA.NNS Zephyr WORSTEDS, Worstcd Patterns, Corsets, 
Ladies' Undervests, Hosiery, Hamburg Edge and Insertings, Cor- 
ticelli Spool Silk, Coats' and Clark's Spool Cotton, Wenck's Per- 
fumery, Toilet Soap, and everything new and stylish pertaining to 
^ store of this kind, and will be sold at reasonable prices. I have 

FIM8T-€LAm TBIMMEB8, 

And such work done on short notice and in the most stylish 
manner. 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 37 

TALLAHASSEE. 

Leon county. 

12 miles between stations ; 83 miles from Live Oak. 

and 262 miles from Savannah ; telegraph and money order'offlce ; 
the capital of the State and county town. Population 2,500. 

This was formerly a place of great wealth, and is still famous 
for the refinement and hospitality of its inhabitauts, located in a 
rolling country with a bracing climate pleasant to invalids, the 
summer heat being modified by constant breezes from the Gulf of 
Mexico, only 21 miles distant. There are several very pretty lakes 
in the vicinity, on which the sportsman can find pleasant pastime 
in the proper seasons. Tallahassee has many handsome residences, 
surrounded by gardens pleasant to the eye of the florist. 

A branch railroad from this point connects with St. Marks, 
distance 21 miles. This was formerly a place of considerable 
commercial importance, but since the era of railroads it is almost 
deserted. A United States S ignal Station is located here. 

MIDWAY. 

Leon county. 
12 miles between stations ; 95 miles from Live Oak. 

QUINCY. 

Gadsden county. 
12 miles between stations ; 107 miles from Live Oak. 

MOUNT PLEASANT. 

Gadsden county. 
9 miles between stations ; 116 miles from Live Oak. 

CHATTAHOOCHEE. 

Gadsden county. 
8 miles between stations ; 124 miles from Live Oak. 

CHATTAHOOCHEE RIVER. 

3 miles between stations ; 127 miles from Live Oak ; 

306 miles from Savannah ; western terminus Jacksonville, Pensa- 
cola and Mobile Railroad. 

EASTWARD FROM LIVE OAK, 

JTJKOTION WITH A. AND G. R. R. 

HOUSTON. 

Suwannee county. 
6 miles between stations ; 6 miles from Live Oak. 



38 GUIDE -TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 

A . J. BEACH & m^ 







moMLMmi 



Palatka, Fla. 




A VARIBTr OF 



Fmite Siiaitedl t^tM (Climate 



^ 



AND A 



. SELECT VARIETY OF THE ORANGE. 

Foreign Varieties Budded on Sweet Stocks; 



Also, Select Varieties from the 




AS GROWN AT LARGE IN FLORIDA— VERY CHOICE. 

We make a specialty to furuish Varieties Suitable for Hot-House 

Culture. Trees of our varieties, as we will designate, will fruit at two years. 

LEMONSj 8ieily and French. 

NEW, VERY FINE AND SMOOTH. THE FINEST KNOWN. 
Sendtfor Price List. Address, 

A. J. BEACH & SON, Palatka, Fla. 



GUIDE TO SOUTHEEN GEOEGIA AND FLOEIDA. 39 

WELBOllN. 

Suwannee county. 
5 miles between stations ; 11 miles from Live Oak. 

Is situated on the Jacksonville, Pensacola and Mobile Railroad, 72 
miles west of Jacksonville and 9-t miles east of Tallahassee. It 
contains 150 inhabitants, has one church, a good school, and two 
corn-grinding and cotton ginning establishments. There is a saw- 
mill near hear which turns out a quantity of lumber, and has a 
planing and turning machine, where they turn bedstead posts, etc., 
which are brought here and manufactured. There are two black- 
smith shsps, a cabinet shop, and several stores. The surrounding 
country is level and as a general thing produces well. There are 
some hammock and some pine lands which are pretty good, and 
can be bought at a reasonable price. There is plenty of pine, 
white oak, hickory and several other kinds of trees which are 
here in abundance. The country is very healthy ; has an abund- 
ance of good well water. Desirable town lots can be had at rea- 
sonable figures and there are several houses and lots which can 
be bought cheap, and some that can be rented at very reasonable 
prices, A few persons can find accommodations here daring the 
winter if they wish to rid themselves of the stern winter North. 
There is a good opening here for a good hotel, and some nionied 
man would do well to put up one. This is a good place to raise 
vegetables, which can be shipped from here to New York at the 
low rate of one dollar per 100 pounds. Persons in search of 
homes are respectfully invited to come and look at the place and 
surrounding country. 

LAKE CITY. 

Columbia county. 
12 miles between stations ; 23 miles from Live Oak ; 

Eastern terminous Jacksonville, Pensacola and Mobile Kailroad ; 
junction with western terminous Florida Central Railroad. 
Population 1,000 ; county town ; telegraph and money order offices. 
This place derives its name from the numerous lakes in the vicinity, 
which abound with fish at all seasons. Numerous houses here 
have ample room for visitors. A weekly [paper, the Reporter, is 
published here. 

OLUSTEE. 

Baker county. 

12 miles between stations ; 35 miles from Live Oak. 

Noted as the site of the most sanguinary battle fought in the State 



40 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 

BALLARD'S 
CURIOSITY STORE 



ON HAND, A GOOD ASSORTMENT OF 

Sect JBecLTLSy 

jUltgcLtoT' TeetlXj 

rALMETTO WOBK, AND STATIONERY, 

Special attention given to Native Jewelry, 

ST. GEORGE STREET, ST. AUGUSTINE, FLA. 

4®= RAILROAD TICKETS to all parjts of the United States. Special 
Agent Florida Central Railroad. 



59|- Bay Street, Up Stairs, 







Jfaelasonvilley 



Florida. 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 41 

during the late war, A large body of Federal troops, under the 
command of Major General Trumau Seymour, marched westward 
from Jacksonville in February, ISGl. At this place they en- 
countered the Confederate forces, under command of General 
Josepli Finegan. A desperate battle ensued, lasting from 1 p. m. 
until dark. The Federals were defeated, and retreated toward 
Jacksonville, abandoning their dead and wounded. Their Iobs 
was heavy, including Colonel Fribly, of the colored trocps, killed. 

SANDERSON. 
Baker county. 

10 miles between stations ; 45 miles from Live Oak. 

DARBYVILLE. 

Baker county. 
9 miles between stations ; .54 miles from Live Oak. 

BALDWIN. 

Duval County. 

9 miles between stations ; 63 miles from Live Oak ; 

Crossing A. G. and W. I. T. Co.'s R. R., for Fernandina, distant 

47 miles northward, and Cedar Keys, 107 miles southward. Two 

hotels here accommodate guests. Post and telegraph offices. 

WHITE HOUSE. 

Duval County. 

8 miles between stations ; 71 miles from Live Oak, 

JACKSONVILLE. 
Duval county. 

11 miles between stations ; 82 miles from Live Oak ; 
261 miles from Savannah ; eastern terminus Florida Central Rail- 
road ; 261 miles from Savannah, is located on the St. John's river, 
25 miles from the Atlantic Ocean, and is the objective point of 
most visitors to the i^late; the largest city on the Atlantic Coast 
south of Savannah, and the principal commercial emporium of 
the State ; extending along the banks of the river for four miles, 
the streets regularly laid out with fine shade trees to add to its 
beauty. Numerous handsome buildings, both public and private, 
shows its importance. Within its limits are twelve churches— three 
Methodist, three Baptist, two Presbyterian, two EpiscopaUan, one 
Roman Catholic, and one Second Advent. 

BALDWIN, FLA. 
Junction of Florida Central and A. G. & I. T. Co.'s R. R. 
5 



42 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 




HOW TO Live 

FLORIDAi 

HOW TO GO. COST 
OF TRIP, COST TO 
SETTLE, what to cul. 
tivate. how to culti- 
vate it, etc., etc^ ajl 
told in each number 
of Florida BTew- 
Yorker, published 
at 21 Park Row, New 
York City. Single 
copy, lOc, one year 
$1. 40 Acres Or- 
ange Land for $50L 
On line of railroad, 
country healthy, 
thickly settled Ad- 
dress J. B.OLIVER, 
'ien'l Agent, Box 
■*"0, New y or*. 




PUBLISHED WEEKLY under the auspices of THE FLORIDA DISPATCH 
LINE, 



SDBSC1[IPTI0[( 25 CTS., PER YEjlR. 



SAMP7 E COPIES can be obtained at the office of C. I). OWENS, 
Geneia.1 .Agent A» <fe G. R. R., 315 Broad-way, NtTV York, who 

is authorized to receive subscriptions and make contracts for advertising. 
Advertising rates, 10 cents per line, nonpareil type. 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 43 

NORTHWARD.— DUTTON'S. 

Duval county. 

11 miles between stations ; 71 miles from Live Oak. 

CALLAHAN. 
Nassau county, 
9 miles between stations; 83 miles from Live Oak. 

HART'S ROAD. 

Nassau county. 

15 miles between stations ; 98 miles from Live Oak. 

FERNANDINA. 

Nassau county. 

12 miles between stations ; 110 miles from Live Oak ; 
Northern terminus A. G. & W. I. T. Co.'s R. R. 

BALDWIN. 
Junction Florida Central and A. G. & W. I. T. Co.'s R. R. 
SOUTHWARD.— MoCLENNY. 

8 miles between stations ; 71 miles from Live Oak. 

LAWTEY. 
1 1 miles between stations ; 82 miles from Live Oak. 

STARKE. 

Bradford county. 
7 miles between stations ; 89 miles from Live Oak. 

WALDO. 

Alachua count3\ 
11 miles between stations ; 100 miles from Live Oak. 

GAINESVILLE. 

Alachua county. 
14 miles between stations ; 114 miles from Live Oak. 

ARREDONDO. 

Alachua county. 
6 miles between stations , 120 miles from Live Oak. 

BATTON. 

Alachua county. 

4 miles between stations ; 124 miles from Live Oak. 

ARCHER. 

Alachua countj^ 

6 miles between stations ; 1 29 miles from Live Oak. 

BRONSON. 
Levy count^^ 

9 miles between stations ; "138 miles from Live Oak. 
Post office ; county town ; population 250. This section of coun- 



44 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 

try is very productive and well adapted to the cultivation of cot- 
ton sugar cane, etc. 

OTTER CREEK. 

Levy county. 

12 miles between stations ; 150 miles from Live Oak. 

ROSEWOOD. 

Levj'^ county. 

11 miles between stations ; 161 miles from Live Oak. 

CEDAR KEYS. 
11 miles between stations ; 172 miles from Live Oak ; 

351 miles from Savannah ; Southern terminus Atlantic, Gulf and 
West Indian Transit Company's Railroad ; population 600. There 
is considerable business done at this point with New Orleans and 
Havana ; regular line of steamers leaving for these points every 
Saturday ; also a semi- weekly line for Tampa, Manatee and Key 
West. 



ST. JOHN'S EIYEE. 

This magnificent and capacious body of water, characterized 
for its waywardness by the Indians as "Il-la-ka, " meaning that 
** it had its own way," flows through East Florida, almost due 
northward, for 400 miles, until Jacksonville is reached. It then 
runs directly east into the Atlantic Ocean. It seems to be formed 
by the numerous small streams from the unexplored region of the 
Everglades, though its real source is unknown. There are but a 
few streams in the world that present a more tropical appearance 
along their whole course — we find orange groves, bitter and sweet 
dipping their gold-dappled boughs into its tepid waters. On its 
brink, rises the stately magnolia in all its pride, steeping the 
atmosphere in its perfume. The waters of this noble stream are 
of a dark blue, and slightly brackish in taste, as far up as Lake 
George. 

The banks of the St. John's are the principal attraction to in- 
valids in search of pleasant surroundings. Thousand of visitors 
are scattered among its towns and villages every winter, while 
some few bring camp equipages and pitch their tents in the 
picturesque forests. 

JACKSONVILLE. 
Eastern terminus Florida Central Railroad. 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 46 

NORTHWARD— OR DOWN THE RIVER. 

YELLOW BLUFF. 

12 miles between landings ; 12 miles from Jacksonville. 

MAYFORT. 

6 miles between landings ; 18 miles from Jacksonville. 

PILOT TOWN. 
6 miles between landings ; 1 8 miles from Jacksonville. 

FORT GEORGE ISLAND. 
2 miles between landings ; 20 miles from Jacksonville. 

ST. JOHN'S RIVER BAR. 

2 miles between landings ; 22 miles from Jacksonville. 

Mouth of St. John's river empting into Atlantic Ocean. 

JACKSONVILLE— SOUTHWARD, OR UP THE ST. JOHN'S 

RIVER. 

MULBERRY^ GROVE. 
12 miles between landings ; 12 miles from .Jacksonville. 

On the west bank of the river ; is the first landing. There is a 
beautiful grove here, a very pleasant resort for picnic parties. 

MANDARIN. 
Duval county. 

3 miles between landings ; 15 miles from Jacksonville; 
On the east bank ; post office. Population 250. A convent has 
been recently established here by the bishop of Florida, and is 
now inhabited by the Sisters of Mercy. Mrs. Harriet Beecher 
Stowe resides here ; she has a pleasant cottage surrounded by 40 
acres of land, several of which are planted with orange trees. 

This was once the scene of a dreadful massacre by the Seminole 
Indians. Just beyond this place can be seen the wreck of the 
Federal transport "Maple Leaf," destroyed by a torpedo during 
the war. 

ORANGE PARK. 

15 miles from Jacksonville. 

HIBERNIA. 

Clay county. 

8 miles between landings ; 23 miles from Jacksonville ; 

On the west bank ; post office. A pleasant and convenient resort 
for invalids. Boarding house ; Mrs. Fleming, proprietress. 



46 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GhEORGIA AND FLORIDA.. 

MAGNOLIA. 

Clay county. 

5 miles between landings ; 28 miles from Jacksonville ; 

On west bank ; post office. This is one of the most pleasant 
places on the river ; having fine hotel accommodations, it is much 
frequented by Northerners. Near this place, to the northward, is 
Black Creek, whicli is navigable for small steamers as far as Mid- 
dleburg. 

GEEEN COVE SPRINGS. 
Clay county. 

2 miles between landings ; 30 miles from Jacksonville ; 

On west bank ; post office. The principal attraction here is the 
fine spring, from which the place derives its name. The waters 
of the spring are strongly impregnated with sulphur, and have a 
temperature of about 75 degrees, well adapted for rheumatism and 
dyspepsia. The bathing facilities are well arranged. This place 
boasts of two fine hotels and a number of boarding houses. 

HOGARTH'S. 

St. John's county. 
5 miles between landing ; 35 miles from Jacksonville ;' 

On cast bank ; post office ; wood landing. 

PICOLATA. 

St. John's county. 
5 miles between landings ; 40 miles from Jacksonville ; 

On east bank; post office. This is the site of an ancient Spanish 
city, with a fine church and monasteries, erected two centuries 
ago by Franciscan friars ; all that remains at this historical point 
now is a cabin and field grown up with weeds. This was formerly 
the landing for St. Augustine, having been used as such until the 
completion of the St. John's Railroad. Opposite Picolata are the 
remains of Port Poppa, erected during the Fpanish era, 

TOCOI. 

St. John's county. 

9 miles between landings ; 49 miles,f rom Jacksonville ; 

Eastern terminus St. John's Railroad. 

On the east bank ; post office. Here connection is made by the 

St. John's Railroad with St. Augustine, distant 14 miles. Thig 

road has been rebuilt with iron rails, and the run is made in 35 

minutes, twice per day, each way. 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 47 

FEDERAL POINT. 

Putnam county. 

9 miles between landings ; 58 miles from Jacksonville ; 

On the east bank of the river ; post office ; wood landing. 

ORANGE MILLS. 

Putnam county. 

5 miles between landings ; 63 miles from Jacksonville ; 

On the east bank ; post office. A beautiful orange grove here. 

DANCEY'S. 

I mile between landings ; 64 miles from Jacksonville ; 

Has one of the oldest orange groves on the river, the fruit from 

which is always sought after. 

PALATKA. 

Putnam county. 

II miles between landings ; 75 miles from Jacksonville ; 
On the west bank of the river ; post and telegraph offices ; situ- 
ated at the head of navigation for ocean steamers ; this is the most 
prominent place south of Jacksonville. Population 1,500. The 
adjacent country is characterized by a richness of vegetation and 
mildness of climate. The streets of Palatka are shaded with the 
wild orange, some of which are in full fruit and flower at the same 
time, giving a beautiful appearance to the town. 

At this point passengers take steamers for the Oclawaha River, 
which empties into the St. John's 25 miles south of here. No 
visitors to Florida should fail to make a trip up this celebrated 
river. 

Two first-class hotels in Palatka furnish ample accommodations 
for all visitors. At Heiss' "old curiosity store " and news depot 
will be found many things interesting to the tourist. On the op- 
posite side of the river lies the beautiful orange grove owned by 
Colonel Hart, the largest on the river, containing over 700 trees, 
which yield an annual income of from $12,000 to !|15,000. 

SAN MATTEO. 
Putnam county. 
5 miles between landings ; 80 miles from Jacksonville ; 

On east bank of river ; post office. 

WELAKA. 

Putnam county. 

20 miles between landings ; 100 miles from Jacksonville ; 

Junction of Ocklawaha River. 

Situated midway between Jacksonville and Enterprise, and oppo- 



48 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 

site the mouth of the Ocklawaha river, possesses advantages for 
the immigrant unequaled by any other point on the St. John's 
river. Its central position, its convenience to the Ocklawaha river, 
its depth of channel allowing vessels drawing eight feet of water 
to come to its wharves, its high and dry position on the river, sup- 
ported by a fine back country, offer superior advantages to the 
capitalist, to the merchant, to the real estate agent, and to the 
hotel keeper. As yet, the orange occupies the most direct atten- 
tion of the people, and there are over ten thousand orange trees in 
grove in the immediate neighborhood. It is estimated that in 
three years there will be six thousand orange trees in bearing at 
this place. 

The productions at present consist chiefly of oranges, grapes, 
garden vegetables, corn, oats, rye, cow-peas, sweet potatoes, 
strawberries, honey, poultry, and various other items incidental to 
farming, all tending to show the resources and capability of this 
place. The Welaka Shingle Mill does a thriving business here. 

Land on the river is worth from thirty to forty dollars per acre, 
and high, rolling pine land, well adapted to light farming and fruit 
culture, a mile from the river, is worth ten dollars per acre. 

The invalid finds here advantages possessed by but few places 
in the State. The Sulphur Springs at Beecher, a mile from We- 
laka, have been analyzed, and possess excellent medicinal proper- 
ties. The Fairbanks Spring, the largest on the St. John's river, a 
half mile from the north end of Welaka, is an excellent sulphur 
spring, but the writer does not know that it has been analyzed. 
There are two other sulphur springs a mile and a half farther 
down the river. The land throughout the county is almost entire- 
ly clean, high, rolling pine land, and hence the country is well 
supplied with pure, wholesome air. 

The country round about Welaka is especially attractive to the 
sportsman. In many places adjacent to Welaka, deer, bear, wild 
cat and turkeys are found, whilst the St. John's and Ocklawaha 
rivers abound in many fins species of fish, affording much sport to 
the fisherman. 

Welaka has yet no regular hotel, but visitors are recommended 
to stop at Broad's Wharf, as being more easily accessible to the 
country lying back, and inquire for Mrs. McClure's, near the 
vrharf, and Mr. Woodworth's, a mile from the wharf, where they 
will obtain excellent accommodations. 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEOROIA AND FLORIDA. 49 

LAKE GEORGE. 

7 miles between landings ; 107 miles from Jacksonville ; 

Above "Welaka the river widens into Little Lake George, 7 milea 
long and 3 to 4 miles wide ; south of this, 107 miles from Jack- 
sonville, is Lake George. This beautiful sheet of water is about 
18 miles in length and 10 miles in width. This lake has a number 
of islands in it— the largest, called Rembrandt, is 1,700 acres in 
extent, and has on it a splendid orange grove, and numerous ves- 
tiges of original settlers. The lake is well stocked with fish and 
water fowls of every description. Approaching the southern 
shore, clothed in eternal verdure, the mouth of the river is scarce- 
ly distinguishable on account of its diminished width and the 
blending of forest and stream. Near tlie mouth the water is very 
shallow, not exceeding five feet in depth. 

VOLUSU. 
Volusia county. 

87 miles between landings ; 144 miles from Jacksonville ; 

On east bank of river; post office. This is also the site of an 
ancient Spanish settlement, no vestige of which remains. An im- 
mense land grant was afterwards obtained here from the Spanish 
government by Mr. Dennison Rolles, an English merchant of 
wealth, who erected a beautiful mansion and established a home 
for the unfortunate women from the streets of London, with a 
view to their reformation. Numerous disasters befell the colony, 
and it was finally broken up. 

ORANGE BLUFF. 
Volusia county. 
3 miles between landings ; 147 miles from Jacksonville ; 

On east bank of river ; wood landing. South of this point, on 
east of river, is Lake Dexter, around which are many fine planta- 
tions. 

HAWKINSVILLE. 

Orange county. 

27 miles between landings ; 1 74 miles from Jacksonville ; 

On west bank of river ; post office. At this place can be seen a 

large banana grove. 

CABBAGE BLUFF. 

Volusia county. 
1 mile between landings ; 175 miles from Jacksonville ; 

On east bank of river ; post office ; wood landing. 



60 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 

BLUE SPRINGS, 
Volusia county. 
5 miles between landings ; 180 miles from Jacksonville ; 

On east bank of river ; post office. Near this landing is one of 
the largest springs in the State, forming a basin a quarter of a 
mile in length, aboul 100 feet wide, and 20 feet deep. The water 
boils from a botom of 80 feet, is clear as crystal, and of a sulphur- 
ous smell. Shoals of fish can be seen in the stream flitting here 
and there seeking their livelihood. This is a favorite resort for 
marooning parties, the hunting being very fine in the vicinity. 

SANFORD. 
Orange county. 
9 miles between landings ; 204 miles from Jacksonville ; 

Post office ; situated on the west bank of Lake Monroe, (which is 
second in size on the river, being about 12 miles long and 5 miles 
wide. ) Sanf ord has excellent hotel accommodations, and is much 
frequented by invalids and others. 

MELLONVILLE, 
Adjoin'ng and only one mile south of Sanf ord, is located on the 
site of Fort Mellon, erected during the Indian war. This is one 
of the most important landings on the river ; ia is surrounded by a 
very fertile country, and is being rapidly settled up by an intelli- 
gent class of people. Lakes Apopka, Harris, Eustis, Griffin, etc., 
in the interior, furnish all amusement desired by the sportsman. 

ENTERPRISE, 

Volusia county, 
About 90 miles south from Jacksonville, by the river 211 miles ; 
beautifully situated on the northern bank of Lake Monroe. This 
is one of the oldest and most fashionable places of resort in 
Florida. It has charms for both the tourist and the hunter of 
both game and health. The tourist will find here one of the 
finest mansions in Florida— de Bary Hall— situated in a com- 
manding situation, overlooking the lake, and in an orange grove 
of about six thousand trees. The property has, it is said, cost the 
owner, Mr. de Bary, of New York, over $100,000, and he is still 
investing wisely. Then again a short distance up the lake is an 
old Indian camping ground, surrounded by shell mounds, invested 
with a pre-historic romance, and abounding with health-giving 
springs, which it is to be hoped M'ill, in new hands, be utilized. 
The town of Enterprise is situated on a high and dry bluif , facing 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 51 

southward, and overlooking the beautiful lake, "which, when sun 
or moonlit, is charming to view, particularly from the piazzas of 
the Old Brock House, which has had an uninterrupted popularity 
for about twenty-four years. The hunter here finds a jolly lot of 
boys with whom to spend the evening. The more staid find 
pleasant convei-sation, and, perhaps, a quiet game of whist. Every 
one enjoys a pleasant welcome at this hotel, without the prospect 
of being fleeced at departure. Bodine & McCarty were the hosts 
last winter, and they did not belie the name — were a host in them- 
selves. It is expected they will take the house the coming season. 

In the neighborhood game of every kind is plentiful, from quail 
and snipe, of which immense bags were made last winter, to the 
larger and four-footed animals, deer, bears, etc. 

Ae this is the head of deep water navigation on the St. John's, it 
is naturally the point of departure for the Atlantic coast and 
places on the Halifax, Hillsborough, Mosquito and Indian rivers, 
or lagoons, as they should more properly be called. Small steam- 
ers, however, run up from this point to Salt lake, the nearest 
point by water to Indian river being only about seven miles from 
Titusville. 

OOKLAWAHA KIVER, 

100 miles from Jacksonville. 

FORT BROOKS, 

35 miles between landings ; 135 miles from Jacksonville ; 

This most singular stream, flowing into the St. John's, opposite- 
Welaka, was not fully. explored until the year 1867. For over 150 
miles it runs parallel with the St. John's from Lake Apopka,. 
which is its source, through Lakes Eustis, Griffin, etc., and scarce- 
ly a house is to be seen along its entire course, but now and then a 
landing with its rich freights of cotton, sugar, oranges, etc., the 
products of the fertile counties of Putnam and Marion, On ac- 
count of the narrowness of the stream and the dense foliage om 
the banks, its navigation is somewhat diflicult. 

No visitor to Florida should fail to visit Silver Spring, which 
rises suddenly from the ground, and after running nine miles 
through Silver Run, empties into the Ocldawaha, one hundred 
miles from its mouth. This spring is one of the wonders of this 
tropical clime ; its waters are seventy-five feet or more in depth, 
and so transparent that the glistening sand on the bottom looks aft 
if but a few inches beneath the surface. 



52 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 

The principal landings on the Ocklawaha are Fort Brooks, dis- 
tant from the St. John's 35 miles ; Tola, 50 ; Eureka, 60 ; Sandy 
Bluff, 68 ; Palmetto Landing, 78 ; Gores, 83 ; Darisoe, 89 ; Graham, 
U ; Delk's Bluff, 100 ; Silver Spring, 109 ; Sharp's Ferry, 114 ; 
MossBluif, 140; Stark's, 155; Lake Griffin, 160; Leesburg, 170. 

lOLA. 
15 miles between landings ; 150 miles from Jacksonville. 

EUREKA. 

10 miles between landings : 160 miles from Jacksonville. 

SANDY BLUFF. 

8 miles between landings ; 168 miles from Jacksonville. 

PAL\!ETTO. 
10 miles between landings ; 178 miles from Jacksonville. 

GORES. 

5 miles between landings ; 183 miles from Jacksonville. 

DUEISCE. 

6 miles between landings ; 189 miles from Jacksonville. 

GRAHAM. 

5 miles between landings ; 194 miles from Jacksonville. 

DELK'S BLUFF. 

6 miles between landings ; 200 miles from Jacksonville. 

SILVER SPRING. 

9 miles between landings ; 209 miles from Jacksonville. 

SHARP'S FERliY. 
5 miles between landings ; 214 miles from Jacksonville. 

MOSS BLUFF. 
26 miles between landings ; 240 miles from Jacksonville. 

STARK'S. 
15 miles between landings ; 255 miles from Jacksonville. 

LAKE GRIFFIN. 
5 miles between landings ; 260 miles from Jacksonville. 

LEESBURG. 

10 miles between landings ; 270 miles from Jacksonville. 



INDIAN RIYEE, 

The sportsman's paradise, can be reached by boat from St. Au- 
gustine ; by overland conveyances from Volusia and Enterprise, or 
by steamer from Jacksonville to Salt Lake, thence by stage (six 
miles) to Sand Point, where comfortable quarters can be obtained. 



GDIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 53 

MISCELLANEOUS TOWNS. 

St. Augustine, St. John's county, Florida, by far the most 
ancient town in North America, is situated on a peninsula formed 
by the St. Sebastian and .Matanzas rivers, with a population of 
two thousand persons ; excellent hotel accommodations, numerous 
churches, etc. This is a delightful winter resort. The streets are 
very narrow, the iiouses, with hanging balconies, ahnost touching 
each other across them. 

Near the centre of the city is the "Plaza de la Constitution," a 
fine square, on which is located the principal public buildings, 
notably among which is the Catholic Cathedral. This building 
was commenced in 1 798 ; it has a unique belfry containing four 
chime bells in separate niches, which are rung every morning ; one 
of them is marked 1G82. The floors are concrete. The buildhig 
contains several fine old Spanish paintings. Altogether, it is one 
of the most interesting objects in the city. 

A monument in the Plaza, eighteen feet high, was erected in 
1812 to commemorate the i^panish Liberal Constitution. The 
monument bears the following inscription : 

•' Plaza de la Oonstitucioii, promulgado en esta cindad de 8an 
Augustine, de la, Florida orkntal, en 17 de Octubre, de 1812. 
8ie?ido Govei'nador el Brigadier D. Sebastian Kindallan, CahaMero 
de la orden de San Diego. 

P.^RA ETEKNO MEMORIA. 

El ayuntamiento Constitucional Erigio este Oheliseo dirigido por 
D. Fernando de la Maza A^'redondo, el joven Begidor Decatio Y 
Francisco liobira, Procurador Sindieo.^^ 

TRANSLATION. 

Plaza of the Constitution, promulgated in the city of St. Augus- 
tine, East Florida, on the 17th day of October, the year 1812. 
Being then Governor the Brigadier D. Sebastian Kindalau, Knight 
of the order of San Diego. 

FOR ETERNAL REMEMBRANCE, 

the Constitutional City Council erected this monument under the 
supervision of D. Fernando de la Maza Arredoudo, the young 
municipal officer, oldest member of the corporation, and Francisco 
Robira, Attorney and Recorder. 

The Palace, the residence of the Spanish Governor, is now used 
as the post office and United States Court. The United States 
6 



54 GUIDE TO SOUTHEEN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 

Barracks, now occupied by troops, was formerly a Spanish mon- 
astery. 

The old Huguenot Cemetery and the military burying ground 
are interesting places. In the latter are three pyramids, built of 
coquina, and stuccoed whitewashed, under which lie the remains 
of Major Dade and 107 men, who were massacred by Osceola. 

The Sea Wall, a mile in length, was erected in 1837-43 out of 
coquina, with a coping of granite. It protects the entire east 
front of the city from the encroachments of the river, and aifords 
a delightful promenade. 

Fort Marion — this old Spanish fort was formerly called " San 
Juan de Pinos,'' and afterwards changed to "San Marco." At the 
change of flags in 1821, it received the name of Fort Marion, 
which it now bears. It was begun in 1620, and completed in 
1756. The material used in its construction is almost entirely co- 
quina, a concretion of fragments of shell quarried on Anastasia 
Island, opposite the city. The labor on it was performed princi- 
pally by Apalachean Indians, who alone were forced to work on it 
for sixty years. Conscripts from Mexico also contributed to the 
work. It is one of the strongest fortifications in this country, re- 
quiring an armament of one hundred guns and one thousand men 
as a garrison. It has never been taken by a besieging enemy. It 
5s in all respects a castle, built after the plan of those in the middle 
ages of Europe. In modern military parlance, it is known as a 
four-bastioned fort. 

The inscription over the gate or sally-port of the fort is as fol- 
lows . 

" Renando En Espana 8enr Don Fernandx) Sexto T Siendo Oon 
Y Capn Oendefs O N Avcdelaf T S Vprov, Elmairscal De Gampi 
D N Alonso Frnzdie Ridiase conctavioestecs. To LI oelan 0. D. 
1756, Diriendo las robrel (Japyniero^ D. N. Pedro De Brazens T 
Oaray." 

TRANSLATION. 

Don Ferdinand the VI, being King of Spain, and the Field 
Marshal Don Alonzo Fernando Hereda being Governor and Cap- 
tain General of this place, St. Augustine of Florida, and its 
province. This fort was finished in the year 1756. The works 
were directed by the Captain Engineer, Don Pedro de Brazas Y. 
Garay. 

St. Augustine is reached by steamers from Jacksonville to Tocoi, 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 55 

thence via St. John's Railroad, the whole forming a pleasant ride 
of about five hours. 

A number of first-class hotels and private boardmg houses 
furnish all necessary accommodations to visitors. 

Visitors to St. Augustine in search of real estate had better 
consult A. J, Goss, Real Estate Agent. 



THE LAKE COUNTRY OF FLORIDA. 

The country lying in and around the "Ocklawaha Lakes," as 
they are termed, is known as the Lake Region of Florida. About 
midway the peninsula, equidistant from gulf and ocean, these 
lakes are clustered together, having a water connection, affording 
a highAvay between them — Harris, Eustis, Griflin, Dora, Beuclair, 
and Apopka. Through and from these lakes the Ocklawaha river 
flows to the Atlantic, and at high-water season tlie water flows as 
well westward through the Withlacoochee river to the gulf— ^thus 
it is demonstrated that the region is upon the backbone of the 
peninsula, the great water-shed, and, per consequence, one of the 
most elevated sections of the State. The shores to the lakes are 
bold and prominent, for the most part — in some cases bluffs forty 
to fifty feet precipitous from the w^ater. Around the lake margins, 
of a width varying from one-fourth to three miles, the soil is 
heavily timbered hammock, exceedingly fertile, and interspersed 
with magnificent groves of the wild orange. The lakes are free 
from grasses and bonnets, of clear, pure water, varying in size, 
from Lake Harris, which is eighteen miles long by a width of 
from three to six miles, to Lake Beanclair, which is from one to 
two miles in width. The country back of the hammock mai-gins 
is a high, rolling pine laud, interspersed with innumerable little 
crystal lakes. 

This region is eminently attractive to the immigrant, and is 
beyond doubt as well adapted to the production of fruits and vege- 
tables as any section of the State. The soil is fertile, responding 
generously to the cultivator. 

The peculiar location in and around such a cluster of lakes ren- 
ders it as free fi-om frost as any section of the State north of 
Charlotte Harbor. The southern shores of these lakes, having the 
protection of water exposure on the north, are simply frost proof, 
as settlers of twenty years' residence can testify. It is, from its 



56 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AKD FLORIDA. 

elevated situation, free from malarial influences, and is healthy 
and delightful as a residence winter and summer. 

Constant breezes during the summer months, with the showers 
of the rain season, make a delightful temperature. The climate is 
simply charming. The aspect of the country is picturesque and 
beautiful, and never fails to elicit enthusiastic praise from the cul- 
tivated lover of nature. 

This section is being settled up by as fine a class of people as the 
United States can produce— a high-toned, cultivated Christian 
people. The number of villages in and around the lakes attest the 
rapid influx of settlers — Yalaha, Leesburg, Okahumpka, Fort 
Marion, Clifford, etc. Shores which two years ago were in a 
primitive state, now are studded with cottages and fruit farms, 
and industry and thrift everywhere prevail. 

This section depended for its outlet to market upon the Ockla- 
waha river, but it has now grow^n too big for the Ocklawaha. A 
quicker and more commodious transit is demanded, and this will be 
given by the St. John's, Lake Eustis and Gulf Railroad. This 
road is now Jbeing rapidly pushed forward to completion. From 
the lakes to Jacksonville, over this road, only twelve hours is con- 
sumed, and with such an outlet to the great markets of the North 
there is but little doubt that this attractive region will become the 
fruit land and market garden, fadle princeps, of Florida. 



INDUCEMEISTTS 

TO 




GEOEGIA. 

For home comfort and abundance, no country is better suited, 
if one will but make them a prime object. Germans and other 
foreigners have frequently remarked on the advantage of winter 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 57 

crops, and the ground working for them all the time, and not 
being ice-bound in winter. 

Increased population would rapidly lead to diversification of 
pursuits, which again would rapidly develop the needed capital 
from within, if not from abroad ; and we do not hesitate to say, 
as the result of observation and experience, that the best immigra- 
tion is the immigration from the Northern States, or domestic, 
rather than from abroad or foreign. These are soonest assimila- 
ted. The best means of harmonizing the sections is by the mutual 
acquaintance to which such immigration will give rise. Sectional 
antipathies are based on mutual ignorance, and disappear before 
knowledge. 

Come and see for yourselves. Do not expect fairy-land, or ex- 
emption from labor and care, but come and compare climate, pro- 
ductions, and the general conditions of comfort with those to be 
had elsewhere, and you will find them to compare favorably. You 
will quickly see that we have not improved our natural advantages 
adequately, but you will find that Nature has done her part well ; 
and if you bat bring with you good habits of painstaking and 
economy, you will soon build up a delightful home You will find 
gf!od sense and good feeling, and in any considerable community 
men of culture and refinement ; still, generally, they do not show 
so well at first as on longer acquaintance. 

You should visit the country, and see the capacities of the soil 
and climate. Do not regard the present agriculturists as knowing 
everj^thing, nor yet fall into the contrary error of supposing they 
know nothing— in fact, they know much — yet the present is but a 
transition state, and they have not fully solved the problem of 
conformity to the new conditions of life and labor. The young 
men and the new men are now on an equal experience-level with 
with the old, so you will have a fair start. 

The indaceinents generally referred to are agricultural. Those 
for manufacturers are equally great. For success in these, noth- 
ing is needed but capital and good management ; and where will 
they thrive without both ? All the needful conditions are here for 
the development of the most profitable manufacturing industry in 
the whole country. Climate, material, and power, all exist to- 
gether in an unsurpassed condition. 

Professional men we do not need so much as men of science and 
skill. Our people have, themselves, devoted much more of. their 
time to other subjects than to science or to expertness in labor. 



58 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 

We think South Georgia and Florida, all things considered, the 
most desirable of all the sections open for immigration, and still 
inadequately populated. In all lands there are sickness and death, 
hard times, evil days and evil people, mixf^d with the blessings 
and the good things of life. Trouble and discipline, labor a^id 
sorrow, are incident to all climes ; yet Nature has been provident 
in her gifts to us, and man needs only an average care and skill to 
make here as happy homes as the world has ever known. The 
earth, with its range of productions, the sun and air and conditions 
of climate, the abundant wood and water and water-power, the 
present settled state of the country and degree of development, 
and the future promise for one's children of a still higher develop- 
ment, all point to the South as admirably suited for immigration, 
and to no part of the South more than to South Georgia and 
Florida. 



CLIMATE. 

ADVANTAGES OF OUR CLIMATE. 

De. C H. Hall, Macon, Ga. ; • 

Bear Doctor :— Your letter in reference to "catarrh" and the 
advantages of this climate in that disease and phthisis, has been 
received. I am glad that inquiry in reference to the prevalence of 
'* catarrh in the pine belt " has been made. It is a disease so sel- 
pom seen or heard of here, that no special reference has been 
made to it by those who have written or spoken of the advantages 
of our climate in pulmonary disease. In my report, read before 
the Medical Association of Georgia on the adaptability of the 
climate of the pine forests of South Georgia to the consumptive, 
I gave it as my opinion that no region of country on the continent 
was more exempt from all diseases of the respiratory organs, 
among which I included "catarrh." I located here in January, 
1864, and have been engaged in practice ever since. During this 
period of thhteen years I have been called upon to treat but two 
cases of nasal catarrh. The Hon. James L. ^Seward, whom you 
know to be a close obseiTer, not only in matters of law, but in 
everything concerning the health and general welfare of the people 
with whom he has long mingled, informs me that he has been a 
resident of this place forty-nine years, and during that time he 
has rarely heard of nasal catarrh, the disease to which you refer 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 59 

in your letter. If there is a disease from which we are more than 

any other exempt ia the pine belt, it is nasal catarrh. We hav© 
now located here several gentlemen from the Eastern and Western 
States, who have been entirely cured of that disease by a change 
of residence. Among these is Dr. A. Frost, of Seymour, Indiana. 
He has suffered for years, and on removing here was speedily 
ured. These cases have evidently been cured by our equability 
of temperature and the inhalation of the pine aroma. This would 
indicate the therapeutic intiuence of the oil of turpentine by atomi 
zation in that troublesome and often intractable complaint. Our 
exemption here is in striking contrast with its prevalence in the 
elevated lands of Colorado, Minnesota, Nebraska and New Mexico. 
If we are to believe the published reports of eminent physicians in 
these regions, catarrh, bronchial, nasal and aural, are exceedingly 
common. In these regions of great altitude the highly rarified 
condition of the air is productive of very sudden and very great 
vicissitudes in temperature — the mercury falling in a few hours 
from thirty to forty degrees. This seems to account for the fre- 
quency of catarrhs. Where changes are so sudden and extreme it 
is next to impossible for one to protect himself from the imme- 
diate impulse of the change, from heat to cold - cutaneous transpi- 
ration is suppressed and catarrhs result — first general, affecting the 
mucous membrane of the nasal passages, antrums and bronchia, and 
often ending in chronic nasal catarrh. Here we have none of 
these causes to contend with. Our altitude is 330 feet above sea 
level ; we have no extreme vicissitudes of temperature ; our mean 
temperature in winter is about 53, and in summer about 83, with 
the barometer at about 29|^, and we have the healing influence of 
the pine forests. I apprehend that the word catarrh is not fully 
understood by all invalids. I have examined cases coming here 
for the cure of "catarrh" whose voices entered my ear upim the 
chest through cavities which sealed their doom. 

In reference to the advantages of the piney woods climate in 
pulmonary diseases, I have expressed my opinion very fully in the 
report mentioned, but it may not be amiss, at your request, for me 
to refer to it in this place by way of comparison. " Winter 
homes for invalids " has been a subject of discussion for hundreds 
of years, and you are aware how the profession have differed on 
the subject. I believe some points in this discussion have been 
definitely settled by the results of experiment and experience. 



60 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 

These are : 1st. That the consumptive should studiously avoid the 

dampness and irritating winds of the sea coast. 2d. That they 
should seek localities showing the greatest equability of tempera- 
ture; and 8d, the climate affording the greatest number of fair 
days, during which the invalid may enjoy out-door exercise. In 
this locality we are secure against the first, with a close approxi- 
mation to the second, and with very decided comparative advan- 
tage in the last. We are t wo hundred miles from the Atlantic and 
sixty from the Gulf, Our mean temperature, as I have before 
stated, in winter is about 53, and in summer about 83. I made a 
careful note of the weather from 1st January last to the 17th May 
inclusive, with the following result : Total number of days, one 
hundred and thirty-seven — during that time it rained twenty-five 
times — there were eleven cloudy days and one hundred and one 
fair days. You will see from this that the invalid here would 
have had, out of the one hundred and thirty-seven days, one hun- 
dred and twelve days during which he might have been all day out 
of doors. 1 have before me the report of thermometer for Thom- 
asville and Santa Barbara, California, for the month of January, 
1875, as follows : 

At Thomasville the monthly mean , temperature was 55. 50 ; 
highest temperature, 72 ; lowest temperature, 38. Santa Bar- 
bara — monthly mean temperature, 53.50 ; highest temperature, 70 ; 
lowest temperature, 38. In temperature, you will perceive we 
have the advantage of Santa Barbara, while in the number of fair 
days, so important to the welfare of the consumptive, we know of 
no region of country that can report more favorably. Santa Bar- 
bara has quite a reputation as a winter resort for invalids. Dis- 
tance sometimes lends enchantments to the view. For some years 
past some of our brethren conceiving the idea that altitude was the 
great desideratum in consumption, have sent their patients into the 
-elevate 1 regi ais of Minnesota, Colorado, Nebraska and New 
Mexico While I do not question the purity of their motives, I 
must say that in many instances they have been inconsiderate, if 
not derelict in their duty, to their patients. None of us, however, 
are infallible in diagnosis, and we are willing to put a charitable 
construction upon their motives. I am aware that some, perhaps 
many, may differ with me, but I am not willing, in a matter of 
such vital importance, to withhold from the public an honest 
opinion through fear of opposition or criticism. I ana prepared 



GUIDE TO SOUTHEEN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 61 

with irrefutable evidence from the various localities named to es- 
tablish the correctness of the views expressed. 

Persons of phthisical diathesis — predisposed to phthisis — may be 
sent into those regions of great altitude with advantage. There 
the diminished barometric pressure will increase the number of 
respirations, and may thus develop the vital capacity and functions 
of the lungs. But after the development of tubercular or caseous 
deposit, and particularl}'- after the occurrence of vomicae, it must 
be decidedly injurious, if not eminently fatal. Why, because the 
vital capacity of the lung is already seriously impaired, and the 
more frequent the respiratory acts the less chance is theie for 
healing the lesions. You are aware that there are no more prolific 
causes of pulmonary hemorrhage than sudden and extreme vicissi- 
tudes of temperature and diminished barometric pressure. The 
first class of cases may be benefited by altitude, but for the second 
class it is full of danger. The lungs of the first may require exer- 
cise, those of the second munt have rest. To find rest they must 
avoid high altitudes — they must avoid the seashore with its bleak 
and irritating winds and excessive humidity. And to do this there 
is no safer place for them than in the interior pine forests of 
Southern Georgia, where they can inhale freely the aroma of the 
pine, with the barometer at 29 30 instead of 23 ; and where 
18 respirations per minute instead of 36 will be adequate for the 
supply of oxygen to the blood and tissues. The proportions of 
nitrogen and oxygen in the air we breathe are constant throughout 
the world in all latitudes and altitudes. Notwithstanding this im- 
mutability in the constituents of the air, there is a very decided 
and essential diff^fence in that breathed in low and high altitudes. 
In high altitudes, on account of its rarified condition, the atoms 
composing it are separated in proportion to its rarification, and 
hence a much greater volume must be inhaled to give the same 
weight and attain the same end. If we take a consumptive from 
a locality with an elevation of 300 feet and a barometic range of 
29 or 30 inches into one with an altitude of five or six thousand 
feet with a barometric range of 23 inches, we subject him to the 
painful alternative of either respiring thirty-six times per minute, 
or with each inspiration to take in forty cubic inches of air instead 
of twenty, which is the normal amount with lungs of healthy vital 
capacitj^ at the sea level. His first effort would result in hemor- 
rhage and death ; his second would be impossible. We might just 



62 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 

as well expect the blacksmith to keep up a proper heat in his 
forge with a leaky bellows. 

Last year the following item appeared in a Colorado newspaper : 
"Six human bodies in metallic caskets were shipped yesterday on 
the Kansas Pacific Railroad. To offset this nine iwoalids arrived 
last night." Here is a commentary upon "high altitudes" for con- 
sumptives. I trust you will not accuse me of keeping up the 
climate of the "pine belt" as a "cure all" for phthisis. Such is 
not my intention. Such a climate has never yet been discovered, 
and he who shall be so fortunate as to find it, will be as much, if 
not more, entitled to the gratitude of the human race and the 
mtmumental shaft to perpetuate his memory as the discover of 
ether and vaccine, I have simply endeavored to set forth the ad- 
vantages of the climate in what I conscientiously believe • to be in 
its true light. Comparisons are said to be odious, but in this con- 
nection I do not so Consider them. Now let me say that, of all 
the resorts for invalids known to me from observation or reading, 
I know of none which can be more honestly and strongly recom- 
mended than the "pine forests" of Southern Georgia. In candor 
I must say, that whilst the consumptive is often materially bene- 
fitted by a winter sojourn here, a change of residence, judging 
from observation of quite a number of cases, seems necessary for 
permanent relief. I do not wish to weary your patience, but I 
feel that I should conclude this letter with the following extract 
from "Winter Homes for Invalids," by Doctor Joseph W. Howe, 
professor of Clinic Surgery in the University of New York, in 
reference to the "pine forests" of Southern Georgia: 

"Pine grove localities have the reputation of being very healthy. 
There is usually complete freedom from malarial and pulmonary 
diseases. The atmosphere, impregnated as it is with the peculiar 
volatile principle of the trees, has a soothing effect on inflamed 
throats and irritable lungs. The air agrees with everybody. In- 
valids with troublesome coughs and shortness of breath rapidly 
improve after a short residence, and some far advanced in tuber- 
cular disease recover their health completely. The dryness and 
mildness of the atmosphere has, of course, something to do with 

the beneficial effects experienced, but there is no doubt whatever 
that much of the benefit arises from the air being impregnated 
with the piney odor." 

Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

T. S. HOPKINS, M. D. 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 63 

PEODUCTS. 

Latitude is much more significant in its bearings than longitude, 
largely affecting climate and productions. Georgia lying between 
30 deg. and 35 deg. north, the sun, at the summer solstice, lacks 
but 8 deg. of being vertical on her southern border. The differ- 
ence of latitude between the two borders— say 4^ deg. — is greater 
than in most of the States, the greatest length being north and 
south ; and the corresponding difference of climate and produc- 
tions is augmented by the fact that the most northern part of the 
State is also the most elevated. These circumstances taken 
together make a remarkable range of production. The Southern 
States occupy the southeast corner of the United States, and 
Georgia is nearly in thei?' southeast corner — Florida occupying it 
exactly. 

In 1873, Mr. R. H. Hardaw^ay, in Thomas county, produced on 
upland, 119 bushels of corn on 1 acre, which yielded a net profit 
of $77.17. 

Mr. John J. Parker, of Thomas county, produced in 1874, on 1 
acre, 694^ gallons of cane syrup, worth, at 75 cents per gallon, 
$520.87 ; total cost of production, $77.50— net profit $443.37. 

At the fair of the Georgia State Agricultural Society in 1874, a 
premium of $50.00 was awarded to Mr. Wiley W. Groover, of 
Brooks county, for best results from a two-horse farm. His farm 
consisted of ]26f acres, on which crops to the value of $3,258.25 
were produced that year. Total cost of production, $1,045.00; 
net proceeds, 2,213.25. No guano or other commercial fertilizers 
were used on this farm that year, or for 5 years preceding. The 
crops cultivated were oats, corn, peas, ground peas, sweet pota- 
toes., sugar cane and cotton. 

WHAT HAS BEEN DONE IN THOMAS COUNTY. 

Judge B. H. Hardaway has raised 119 g\ bushels of corn on an 
acre of land. 

Captain E. T. Davis raised 96^ bushels of oats on one acre. 

Mr. Joshua Carroll made 705 gallons of syrup on one acre. This, 
sold at the low price of 33^ cents per gallon, would have brought 
$235.00. 

Dr. Bower has raised as much as 84 bushels of upland rice on 
one acre. This, sold at $1.50 per bushel, would have brought 
him $126.00. 

Mr. J. 1. Pai'ker made 965 gallons of syrup on one acre of land. 



64 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEOEGIA AND FLORIDA. 

This would have brought, at 33^ cents per gallon, over $320.00. 

Dr. J. P. Turner made last year 17 bales of cotton weighing 500 
pounds each, 600 bushels of oats, 300 bushels of sweet potatoes, 
and sixteen barrels of Bjvu'p on pine land, with one mule. 

Dr. T. S. Dekle made last year 200 bushels of corn on five acres 
of pine land. 

Kenneth McKinnon, Sr., made 60 bushels of corn on one acre 
ordinary pine land without using any fertilizer. 

Dr. J. P. Turner made last year over ten thousand pounds of 
bacon. 
J. I. Parker will make this year over 20,000 pounds of bacon. 
Mr. Moncrief, of the Boston Grange, who runs a one-horse farm, 
made 6,000 pounds of bacon. 

Dr. Turner sowed If acres of Nicaraugua wheat on the 27th of 
January and from it he gathered 17 bushels of wheat. Land not 
fertilized. No rust. 

Mr. John Stark has made 6,000 pounds of grapes on one acre of 
land. Allowing fifteen pounds of grapes to the gallon, ^^ bich is a 
pretty fair average, these grapes would have made 400 gallons of 
wine. At $2.00 a gallon this wine was worth $800.00. 

S. G. Culpepper made 546 gallons of syrup on one acre of land. 
He also made 62 bushels of ground peas on one acre. 

Joshua Carroll made 69| bushels of corn on one acre of old 
land. He also made 400 bushels of sweet potatoes on one acre. 
Mr. W. J. Parnell made 6S bushels of ground peas on one acre. 
Rev. J. R. Battle made 476 gallons of syrup on one acre of 
land. 

Mr. John G. Dekle made 49^ bushels of wheat to the acre on a 
four-acre field. He planted the Schley rust proof. On one acre 
of the same ground, the same year, after the wheat had been cut, 
he made 500 bushels of sweet potatoes. He has also made 25 
bushels of peas to the acre. 

H. J. and A. T. Mclntyre planted a field containing something 
over 200 acres in oats this year, and the yield averaged nearly 20 
bushels to the acre. 

Judge Hardaway made this year 400 bushels of oats on five 
acres, or 80 bushels to the acre. He has made as much as 97 
bushels to the acre. He has also made cabbages weighing 40 
pounds, turnips weighing 23 pounds. On 15 acres of hillside land 
lie made 18 bales of cotton. 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 65 

Mr. E. W. Heath on five and a half acres of land made 478 
bushels of clean rice. This was about 87 bushels to the acre. He 
made 45 bushels of corn to the acre, without manure. He made 
17|- barrels of syrup, containing 40 gallons each, and 5 barrels of 
sugar on one acre. This was equivalent to about 23 barrels, or 920 
gallons, on one acre. He had one stalk of cane that produced six 
quarts of juice. He also made in one year, from the labor of one 
mule, one man, one boy and one girl, four months, 1 7 bales of 
cotton, .500 pounds each, 327 bushels of corn, 5 barrels of syrup, 
300 bushels of sweet potatoes and 600 bushels of oats. 

Mr. Trav. Singletary raised 35 bushels of corn on one acre of 
land, without fertilizing, in the 17th, the poorest farming section 
of Thomas county. 

Leon Neal has made 90 bushels of oats to the acre. 

John Neal has made 5G bushels of ground peas to the acre. 

W. C. Eason made 22|- barrels of syrup on one acre. He made 
with one mule 28 bales of cotton, 50 bushels of ground peas, 25 
bushels of corn, 2,500 seed cane and 5 barrels of syrup. 

Mr. Thomas E. Blackshear, just across the Florida line, made, 
as an average crop, on 120 acres of land, 37 bushels of oats to the 
acre, without fertilizing. 

William Sherman, colored, planted rice last year and left the 
Btubble standing. The stubble sprouted last spring, and grew off 
finely and produced a good crop of rice this year. The stubble 
crop matured early in the season, the rice was cut, and from the 
last stubble he now has a second crop which promises a very nice 
yield. These facts will be vouched for by several of the most 
reliable gentlemen in the county. 

G. W. McMath made 73 bushels of corn on one acre of land. 
Land fertilized. 

All the foregoing facts are given on the authority of the gentle- 
men named. Though they appear large, still they are all true, for 
they can all be proven by any number of competent and reliable 
witnesses. 

In Thomas county may be seen, in addition to all the agricul- 
tural productions of the temperate and semi-tropical zones, the 
apple, pear, peach, plum, pomegranate, fig, quince, cherry, grape, 
raspberry, blackberry, strawberry, mulberry, orange, lemon, and 
banana— all j growing within the same orchard. There are few 
countries thus favored by such a combination of soil and climate. 
7 



66 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA* 

In less than a score of years, the fruit crop of Georgia will be 
second only to cotton in commercial importance, if proper atten- 
tion is given in aid of natural advantages. 

Capt. E. T. Davis, of Thomas county, produced in 1873, 96^ 
bushels of rust-proof oats per acre. After the oats were harvested, 
he planted the same land in cotton, and gathered 800 pounds seed- 
cotton per acre. 



FLORIDA. 



Fo much has been written about this world-renowned winter 
resort, that we scarcely consider it necessary to enumerate the 
many attractions which are to be found here, but for the benefit 
of the uninitiated we will give a few points. 
TO TOURISTS. 

This State is being fully appreciated by tourists, and has been 
known long enough to have its regular visitors, to say nothing of 
the constant flow of new comers from all parts of the United 
States. Those who have visited it are satisfied that no other 
locality equals the St. John's and Ocklawaha rivers in picturesque 
variety of beautiful scenery, or in facilities for boating, fishing: 
and hunting. 

The attractions to be found in Florida draw tbe same visitors- 
there again and again. The many persons who visit this section, 
annually are glad when they arrive, and regret to depart. 

The searcher after historical reminiscences will find much of 
interest in traces of Spanish occupation for centuries back, es- 
pecially in the vicinity of ^ t. Augustine. 

TO INVALIDS. 

For a hundred years past this State has been known at home 
and abroad as one of the most healthful locations in the world. 

The thermometer seldom rises above 90 degrees in the summer,, 
or falls below 30 degrees in the winter. 

Northerners have lonsr resorted here to find in the mild ancl 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 67 

genial climate relief from the frigid temperature at home. Those 
who from frequent visits and repeated experiments are best able 
to form an opinion, unite in declaring the climate of Florida un- 
equaled by any other section of country for comfort and health. 

To those persons afflicted with pulmonary complaints, we say 
come to Florida, as many thousands before yon have done, and if 
all have not recovered, many have lengthened their days thereby. 
Don't hesitate until the "foul destroyer" has gained the mastery 
over you, but come before it is beyond the power of the climate 
to aid you. 

The census of 1870 shows that the deaths from pulmonary 
complaints here are less than in any other State, notwithstanding 
the fact that so many persons come here from all portions of the 
country. 

The general health of Florida is unexceptional. We have con- 
versed with the most intelligent medical men, and read the state- 
ments of others on this subject, and they all seem to coincide 
with our views just expressed. Here is what Surgeon- General 
Lawson says on the subject : 

"Indeed, the statistics in the Bureau demonstrate the fact that 
the diseases which result from malaria are of a much milder type 
in the Peninsula of Florida than in any other State in the Union. 
The records show that the ratio of deaths to the number of re- 
mittent fever cases has been much less than among the troops 
serving in other portions of the United States. In the Northern 
division of the United States the proportion is 1 death to 36 cases 
of remittent fever ; in the Middle division, 1 to 52 ; in the South- 
'Crn division, lto54; in Texas, 1 to' 78 ; in California, 1 to 122; 
in New Mexico, 1 to 148, while in Florida it is but 1 to 287." 

This gentleman writes this without any prejudice or partiality 
whatever, and only states what every visitor to Florida must feel. 

TO IMMIGRANTS. 

The cheapness of lands in Southern Georgia and Florida, the 
extremely liealth}^ climate and the variety of crops peculiar to the 
soil, offers inducements not found elsewhere. We will venture 
the assertion that there is not a more happy and independent 
people in America than those ^vho inhabit what is termed the 
"wire-grass" region of Georgia and Florida. There, everything 
is raised that is needed for home coDsuLiiption. The streams 



68 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 

abounds in fish ; the forests contain deer and other desirable game, 
and large herds of sheep and cattle roam over richest pastures, 
planted by the hand of Omnipotence. The people are out of 
debt. Their smoke houses are in their yards, not in the far West. 
Their bread comes from their cribs, not from those of speculators, 
and the clothing they wear is, in many cases, the handiwork of 
their industrious wives and daughters. 

Who would exchange a life of this kind for the sake of being in 
"society," with all its petty exactions and its numerous trains of 
worse evils ? 

Here, the industrious laborer is sure of making a comfortable 
living — that is the least we may expect. Land is offered on such 
terms that it requires but a small capital to secure a home and 
begin the operation of farming. 

The people are hospitable and ever ready to extend the hand of 
welcome -to deserving strangers. To such, "their latch strings 
hang on the outside of their doors." Take it all in all, it is just 
the place for young men to set their stakes and pitch their tents. 

To manufacturers of lumber, naval stores, etc., the country 
offers great inducements. Every facility is offered to such by this 
company in giving reduced rates of fare, etc. 

A small pamplet giving description, location, price, etc., of all 
lands for sale on line of road, can be procured by addressing H. 
S. Haines, General Superintendent Atlantic and Gulf Railroad, 
Savannah, Ga. 

Professor H. E. Colton, of the American Institute, of New York, 
gives it as his opinion that "the most inviting field, and where the 
inducements are greater than any other for the intelligent emigrant 
who wishes to raise early vegetables for market (the season being 
two weeks earlier) where the land is cheap, where rapid transpor- 
tation is offered, where all 'truck' strikes together, is along the line 
of the Atlantic and Gulf Railroad." The Professor says he knows 
the attention of many are turned to this locality ; hence, he gives 
his opinion as a guide to those who contemplate making their 
homes in this section. This is strong and emphatic language, but 
no less true than strong, and can be corroborated by hundreds who 
have taken the pains to satisfy themselves on this point. Coming 
from the source it does, a Northern scientific agriculturalist, one 
who has travelled and investigated the subject with the view of 
giving correct information, is likely to have its full weight and 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 69 

effect. Professor Colton's paper will be read and pondered by- 
hundreds and thousands, more so than if fifty similar papers had 
occurred in Georgia papers. Continued and increasing evidence 
of the facts as set fortli in Mr. Tolton's papers is to be seen more 
and more year after year. Ten years ago but few farms and fewer 
vegetable gardens were to be observed along the line of the 
Atlantic and Gulf Kailroad, but now the traveler, while speeding 
along over this highway, makes use of the oft repeated remark, 
^ 'what a large number and areat variety of early vegetables and 
fancy corn patches the people are cultivating in this country ! " 



HOW TO REACH FLORIDA. 

Visitors to Florida from the North and East should make Sa- 
vannah their objective point, thence via the Atlantic and Gulf 
Kailroad, which is the preferred route to all points in Northern, 
Middle and Eastern Florida, 

From the Southwest you have choice of three routes, viz : Via 
Montgomery, Eufaula and Albany, Atlantic and Gulf Railroad ; 
second, via Montgomery, Macon and Savannah, Atlantic and Gulf 
Eailroad ; third, via Montgomery, Macon, and Jesup, Atlantic and 
Gulf Railroad. All of which are pleasant. 

Through tickets by all of above routes. Time cards, etc., can 
be had by applying at all railroad ticket offices at the principal 
cities, or at the Savannah steamships' agencies in Baltimore, New 
York or Boston. 

We are constantly receiving letters from parties in the North 
who have heard something of the climate, productions and soil of 
Florida, and are desirous of getting reliable information, as the 
reports given by different visitors are extremely contradictory, 
some saying that Florida is one vast desert, being either desolate 
tracts of barren sands or impregnable and w^orthless swamps, 
reeking with miasma and pestilential vapors. Others see nothing 
but bright sunshine, fruit and flowers, every breath comes laden 
with rich perfumes and health-restoring power. The truth is, 
infinite damage has been done the State b}^ the over-wrought and 
visionary letters written b}^ people who have allowed their enthu- 
siasm to paint only the excellencies of the picture and to overlook 
the real, practical, stubborn facts in the case. 

Florida is most emphatically a new State. The hardy pioneer 



70 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEOEGIA. AND FLORIDA. 

who made his way into the wilds of Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Illi- 
nois and other Northwestern States, at an early day will under- 
stand what that means, and will tell you it simply means a rude 
life and a determined grappling with and a subduing of the wilder- 
ness if one expects to become comfortably settled. Some people 
appear to think Florida one vast flower garden and orange grove, 
naturally. The truth irf, it is a wilderness, and those who would 
have a grove and a garden, must make it. 

In regard to the soil of Florida, it is only necessary to say, that 
it is very productive with little cultivation and enriching. It is 
perfectly adapted to the climate and semi-tropical productions of 
the country, and will yield a more bountiful return to the good 
husbandman than any other soil on the face of the globe. It does 
not look like the soil of Illinois, nor is it like it, but it is exactly 
adapted to the climate as every thing which is created by an all- 
wise Providence is exactly fit and proper in its place. 

We are often asked, is Florida, as a State, healthy ? We answer, 
that the sanitary reports of the army show a much greater degree 
of health among the soldiers during the late war, and previously 
among the troops stationed here than in any other section of the 
Union, and the prevailing disease, intermittent fever, is of a much 
less virulent type. That does not prove, however, that people are 
never sick here. They certainly are, but, on the whole, the health- 
fulness of this State is equal at least to that of any other State in 
the Union. 

We are being constantly asked if produce can be profitably 
raised for shipment to New York, Philadelphia, Boston and other 
Northern cities. It can most certainly ; all kinds of fruit and vege- 
tables can be put into above markets from four to six weeks earlier 
than from any other section of the country. The peach bears 
very bountifully and can be brought into bearing from the seed in 
two years. Grapes are also very profitable. Plums and other 
small fruit are very prolific ; but, as we said before, in order to 
have these fruits they need to be planted and cultivated just as 
they do North, only the same attention and care will bring results 
sooner and in a much greater abundance. 

Many of the difficulties encountered by the early settler in the 
West will not be met with here, as he can come by steamer and 
can penetrate to within a few miles of any point in the State by 
some one of our many- navigable rivers and their tributaries, there- 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 71 

by avoiding tlie long, laborious and tedious journey with wagons, 
which the Western settlers had to undergo. The rigorous winter 
of the Northwest is not to be provided for and fortified against. 
Man can live comfortably in a tent and stock can range out, yet 
there are difficulties to encounter and hardships and privations to 
be undergone, and any one who has not the nerve to meet and 
overcome them had better not come to Florida with the idea of 
settling up new places. If he has the nerve to live a pioneer's life 
eight or ten years, he is a rich man at the end of that time. There 
are some improved farms, but not many extensively improved. 

Cotton and cane are very, profitably grown. Corn can be raised 
sufficient for all the wants of the country, and with good culture, 
from thirty to fifty bushels to the acre can be easily produced. 
Millet grows finely, and turnips, carrots and other root crops grow 
the year round if cultivated. Stock raising is very lucrative. 
Cattle, hogs, and even horses are allowed to range the year round 
with very little trouble until fully grown. 

"W hat Florida needs is settlers, who come prepared to meet and 
overcome all the obstacles that a new country presents — men who 
have pluck to reduce the wildest wilderness to a state of cultivation 
and make it blossom like the rose. Such will reap a reward here 
which no other State can possibly offer. 

We repeat it, Florida is a new country, and in the settlement of 
its wild lands there arc much the same obstacles to overcome that 
have ever been found on the frontiers of tJie West, or any other 
country. Comparatively only a few improved places are for sale- 
Hence, those delicate, "kid gloved" young gentlemen who have 
been tenderly raised and have never done any solid farm work* 
and especially whose means are small, should not come to Florida 
to farm. A fancy that it would be very nice to bask under the 
sunshine of a tropical clime and pluck the generous fruits, has 
lured many such to Florida ; and in the midst of the toils and 
the hardships of a frontier life, the romance of these impracticable 
gentlemen soon oozes out, and they are left, stranded as it were, 
upon the universality and force of that law, which, from so early 
a period, has doomed man to earn his bread by the sweat of his 
brow. 

There is another considerable class of men who are more sensible 
perhaps in their ideas of life, but who have been employed in- 
doors in clerkships or mechanical pursuits, who are blessed maybe 



72 GUIDE TO SOUTHEKN GEOKGIA. AND FLOETDA. 

ivith large families, and with but little means. These should not 
-come to Florida, unless they are certain they are made of the stuff 
that genuine pioneers are made of, and are willing to test it by 
two, three or four years of privation and toil, till they can make 
a home in the wilds, get the land cleared, fenced and under culti- 
vation, and grove to bearing. 

No one should come to Florida thinking it to be a land of fruits 
and flowers naturally. These things are not indigenous to the 
soil. The}^ come by the labor and painstaking of man. But when 
that labor and care is bestowed, the climate does most generously 
second his efforts. But very few sweet orange groves are for sale. 
When once brought to bearing they are held at very high prices, if 
offered at^all. 

There is another very considerable class whom we feel it our 
duty to warn against coming to Florida. We refer to that class of 
consumptives who are so far gone that they are not able to exer- 
cise freely in the open air. We are pained every year to see so 
many who have clung to their business until there is nothing left 
to build upon, coming among us to linger a few days and to die in 
the midst of the discomforts of a boarding-house or a hotel, a 
stranger in a strange land. If the invalid is to be confined to his 
room, or lie around his boarding place, we have little or nothing to 
offer him that he cannot find much better at home. It is the con- 
stant exercise in the open air which the sufferer is enabled to take 
in this delightful climate, that restores the broken health, and this 
is one kind of medicine that cannot be taken in too great doses. 

Those, also, who are severely affected with liver disease are not 
improved here. Light affections of this class, however, combined 
with dyspeptic pulmonic and throat difficulties, are benefited. 



THE SOIL OF FLORIDA. 

Florida is a vast peninsula — "new born of the sea" — the most 
southern, and therefore the most tropical division of our country. 
It extends southward nearly four hundred miles between two 
oceans, with an average breadth of more than one hundred and 
twenty-five miles. Its surface is not, as has been generally sup- 
posed, one continuous moras, but principally a sandy, rolling 
country, and for the most part covered with immense forests of 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 73 

yellow, or pitch pine, interspersed with densely and heavily wood- 
ed strips or patches, called hammocks. The whole State lies upon, 
a vast bed of coral, raised in the sea and covered with a stratum 
of sand largely mingled with pulverized or decomposed coral and 
sea shells. In some parts of the State this decomposed coral has 
become concrete, forming a sort of lime rock, and in others the 
sea shells, more or less broken, have also concreted, forming a 
layer of peculiar rock, called "coquina." In many portions of the- 
State clay is also found near the surface, not often pure, but 
mingled with the silicalcareous and coralline elements. Such is 
the foundation of the soil over the whole peninsula. With the 
addition of a vegetable mould which, in the course of time accu- 
mulates from the rank growth, which in the tropical climate of 
Florida make the lands powerfully productive ; over a larger por- 
tion of the high lands exhausting fires, kindled by the Indians and 
frontier settlers, have swept from time to time, destroying nearly 
all of the decayed, and even living vegetable matter, except the 
pines. These seem to be little affected by the burning, but flourish 
enormously almost everywhere, loading the air with their peculiar 
and healing fragrance. 

The lands of Florida are very curiously distributed, and may be 
designated High Hammock, Low Hammock, Swamp, Savanna and 
the different qualities of pine land. Most persons looking at our 
country are greatly at a loss how to judge of the character of these- 
various soils they meet with here— their comparative fertility and 
desirability. Persons who are good judges in other countries, dis- 
trust their ability to judge properly here. The plentiful admixture 
of lime found in all the soil of East Florida in connection with a^ 
moist and warm atmosphere, renders all our soils both more free 
and lasting than appearances would warrant. The general charac- 
ter of the Florida soil is light and sandy, not calculated to sustain 
a continued and exhaustive system of cropping. Those who come 
with this intention, after a few j^ears of varied success, are soon 
compelled to take up the march still further westward and leave in 
the comparatively barren and exhausted soil behind, a melancholy 
testimony of agricultural ignorance and folly; a cause of just 
contumely and reproach from the better informed who may suc- 
ceed them. The pine regions are covered generally with what is- 
known as the wire-grass, an unfailing indication of poorness, and 
the dwarf palmetto is also a marked and accompanying character- 



74 GUIDE TO SOUTHEEN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 

istic of such soils. The hammock lands are designated indis- 
criminately throughout the State, and are of universal interest, 
whether to the agriculturist, the botanist or the lover of the 
picturesque. These lands are of two kinds, the gray and the clay; 
the former are soon exhausted, but the latter, in their character of 
durability and strength, similate alluvial soils. Both have attracted 
the chief attention of the traveler, for in them is vegetation most 
rank, luxuriant, diversified and beautiful. One realizes, upon 
entering a hammock, the astuteness of the savage in making such 
a locality the theatre of his covert, concealed and deadly mode of 
warfare. Here the bright, dazzling and sickening light of a sum- 
mer's mid-day sun is converted into the picturesque, refreshing and 
soul-breathing shade of a welcome twilight — here the shades of 
night anticipate the closing hours of day, and ere light has yet 
passed from the earth, here is "the blackness of utter darkness" 
rendered visible. 

There is in every State and Territory in the Union, a very large 
proportion of barren and poor lands, but the ratio of these lands 
differ greatly in different States. Florida has a due proportion of 
poor lands, but compared with other States, the ratio of her barren 
and w^orthless lands is very small. With the exception of the Ever- 
glades, (which, though now unavailable, are capable of being re- 
claimed at moderate expense,) and her irreclaimable swamp lands, 
there is scarcely an acre in the whole State of Florida that is 
entirely worthless, or which cannot be made, under her tropical 
climate, tributary to some agricultural production. Land, which 
in a more northern climate, would be utterly w^orthless, will, in 
Florida, owing to her tropical character, yield valuable productions. 
There are in Florida no mountain w^astes, no barren prairies, and 
there are but few acres in the whole State, not under cultivation,, 
that are not covered with valuable timber. 

Let us here give a brief sketch of the different descriptions of 
the lands of Florida. 

Pine lands (yellow pine) form the basis of Florida. These lands- 
are usually divided into three classes, denotiag first, second and 
third rate pine lands. 

That which is denominated " first rate pine land" in Florida, has 
nothing analogous to it in any of the other States. Its surface is 
covered for several inches deep with, a dark vegetable mold, be- 
neath which, to the depth of several feet, is a chocolate colored 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEDRGIA AND FLORIDA. 75 

sandy loam, mixed, for the most part, with limestone pebbles, and 
resting upon a substratum of marl, clay or limestone rock. The- 
fertility and durability of this description of land may be esti- 
mated irom the well known fact that it has, on the uppei Suwan- 
nee, and in several other districts, yielded during fourteen years of 
successive cultivation, without the aid of manure, four hundred 
pounds of sea island cotton to the acre. These lands are still aff 
productive as ever, so that the limit of their durability is still un- 
known. 

First class pine lands are generally preferred by small planters^ 
to any other, and they have always been found productive and 
valuable. Indeed, it is believed that the pine lands of Florida are 
superior to any pine lands in the South for their fertility, yielding 
good crops in their natural state, and when trodden by cattle, be- 
coming equal to rich haamock land. There has been seen early 
in the season, cane having above twenty joints and well matured, 
grown upon Florida pine lands, and the sugar made from such 
lands is generally of superior quality. These lands are not appre- 
ciated as they should be ; they are the easiest cleared and cultiva- 
ted, and some of them but little inferior to the hammocks. For 
cotton, vegetables and sugar, they are just as good, if not better. 
The occasional appearance on the surface in pine or hammock of 
lime rock, is an evidence of strong land. 

The "second rate pine lands," which form the largest proportioa 
of Florida, are all productive, and can, by a proper system of cul- 
tivation, be rendered much more valuable than the best lands in 
Texas. These lands afford fine natural pasturage ; they are heavi- 
ly timbered with the best species of yellow pine ; they are for the- 
most part high, rolling, healthy and well watered. They are gen - 
erally based upon marl, clay or limestone. They will produce for 
several years without the aid of manure, and when ' ' cow-penned "^ 
they will yield two thousand pounds of the best quality of sugar 
to the acre, or about three hundred pounds of sea island cotton. 
They will, besides, when properly cultivated, produce the finest 
quality of Cuba tobacco, oranges, lemons, limes, and various other 
tropical productions, which must, in many instances, render them, 
more reliable than the best bottom lands in more northern States. 

Even pine lands of the "third" rate, or most inferior class, are 
by no means worthless under the climate of Florida. This class 
of land may be divided into two orders— the one comprising high^ 



76 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN bGEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 

rolling, sandy districts, which are sparsely covered with a stunted 
growth of '' black jack" and pine ; the other embracing low, flat, 
swampy regions, which are covered with invaluable timber. The 
former of these, as is now ascertained, are, owing to their calca- 
rious soil, well adapted to the growth of Sisal Hemp, which is a 
valuable tropical production. This plant (the Agave Sisalana) and 
the Agave Mexicanna, or Mexican hemp, also known as the 
Mague}^ the Pulque Plant, the Century Plant, etc., have been in- 
troduced into Florida, and they both grow in great perfection on 
the poorest pine lands of the country. As these plants derive 
their chief support from the atmosphere, they will, like the com- 
mon air plant, preserve their vitality for many months when left 
out of the ground. It is scarcely necessary to add that the second 
order of third rate pine lands, as here described, is far from being 
useless. These lands afford a mast excellent range for cattle, be- 
sides being valuable for their timber and the naval stores which 
they can produce. 

There is one general feature in the topography of Florida which 
no other country in the United States possesses, and which affords 
great security to the health of the inhabitants. It is this, that the 
pine lands which form the basis of the country, and which are 
almost universally healthy, are nearly everywhere studded, at in- 
tervals of a few miles, with hammock lands of the richest quality. 
These hammocks are not, as is generally supposed, low, wet 
lands ; on the contrary, they are high, dry, undulating lands, that 
never require either ditching or draining. They vary in extent 
from twenty acres to twenty thousand acres, and will probably 
average five hundred acres each. Hence, the inhabitants have it 
everywhere in their power to select residences in the pine lands, at 
such convenient distances from the hammocks as will enable them 
to cultivate the latter without endangering their health. Experi- 
ence has satisfactorily shown that residences only a mile distant 
from cultivated hammocks are entirely exempt from malarial dis- 
ease, and that the negroes who cultivate the hammocks and retire 
at night to pine land residences, maintain perfect health. Indeed, 
it is found that residences in the hammocks themselves are gen- 
erally perfectly healthy after they have been for a few years 
cleared. In Florida, the diseases which result from these clearings 
are generally of the mildest type, (simple and remittent fevers,) 
while in nearly all of the other Southern States they are most fre- 
quently of a severe grade of bilious fever. 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 77 

The topographical feature here noted, namely, a general inter* 
spersion of rich hammocks, surrounded by dry, rolling, healthy 
pine woods, is an advantage which no other State in the Union 
enjoys ; and Florida forms iii this respect a striiiing contrast with 
Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas, whose sugar and cotton lands 
are generally surrounded by vast alluvial regions, subject to fre- 
quent inundations, so that it is impossible to obtain, within many 
miles of them, a healthy residence. 

The lands which in Florida are par excellence, denominated "rich 
lands," are, first, the "swamp lands," second, "low hammocks,'* 
third, "high hammocks," and, fourth, "first rate pine, oak, and 
hickory lands. " 



THE CLIMATE OF FLOEIDA. 

The situation of Florida, in the southern part of the temperate 
zone, between two seas, the great Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of 
Mexico, and embracing six degrees of latitude and as many of lon- 
gitude, appears to be the natural cause of the goodness of its 
climate, for, on the one hand, a southern latitude exempts it from 
all the inconveniences of extreme cold, so a maritime situation' 
and its lying within the course of the sea breeze that daily blows 
across the peninsula, is the cause that the heat of the sun in sum. 
mer is mitigated by the freshness of the sea air, which in a hot 
climate is much more salutary than the air of an extended conti. 
nent. All America to the north of the river Potomac, is greatly 
incommoded by the severities of the weather for two or three 
months in the winter. In Florida there is, indeed, a change of the 
seasons, but it is a moderate one. In November and December 
many trees lose their leaves, vegetation goes on slowly, and a slight 
trace of winter is perceived. In the northern part of Florida, 
above 29 or 30 [degrees of latitude, there, occur frosts, but not very 
frequent. 

The fogs and dark gloomy weather bo common in England and 
other countries so much surrounded by the sea, are unknown in 
this country. At the equinoxes, especially the autumnal, the rains 
fall heavily every day between eleven o'clock in the morning and 
four in the afternoon, for some weeks together. When a shower 
is over, the sky does not continue cloudy, but clears, and the suu 
8 



78 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 

"appears again. The mildness of the seasons and the purity of the 
air are probably the cause of the healthfulness of this country. 
The average number of sunny fair days in the year is 250. 

William Stark says: "It is an indisputable fact, which can be 
proved by the monthly returns of the 9th Regiment in East Florida, 
that it did not lose one single man by natural death in 20 months, 
and as that regiment performed duty in several forts at different 
distances, it proves in the most satisfactory manner, that the 
climate is healthy in the different parts of the province." 

The peninsula of Florida is not broad, and as it lies between twa 
seas, the air is ofteuer refreshed with rain than on the continent. 
The entire absense of the sun for eleven hours, makes the dews 
heavy and gives the earth time to cool, so that the nights in sum- 
mer are less sultry here than in the northern latitude, where the 
sun shines upon the earth for sixteen or seventeen hours out of the 
twenty-four. The heat which in South Carolina and in the south- 
ern part of Europe is sometimes intolerable for want of wind, is- 
here alleviated by a sea breeze in the day time and a land wind at 
night. It is only in and near the tropics that the land and sea 
breezes are at all uniform or to be depended upon. 

The white people work in the fields in the heat of the day with- 
out prejudice to their health ; gentlemen frequently ride out in the 
middle of the day, and instead of the debilitating effects of a warm 
southern climate, so often spoken of by writers, we here see and 
feel only an invigorating effect, which enables a man to perform 
more work than in any other part of the United States, 

During the eighteen years of residence of I. L. Williams in 
Florida, the greatest heat was 96 deg. Fahrenheit in the shade, and 
this took place but three or four times, and once the cold was as 
low as 26 deg. In usual seasons, the mercury rises to about 90 
deg. in the hottest days of mid-summer, and falls to 43 deg. during: 
the coldest days of winter ; it is not extreme in its variations of 
temperature, neither is it rapid in the succession of those variations^ 
but always maintains that equability and dryness of climate so 
grateful to the Northern invalid. The wonderful climate exerts 
itself alike upon animal and vegetable nature. The heat is suffi.- 
cient to stimulate a rapid and luxuriant growth, while it is never 
so intense as to become disagreeable. 

Dr. Torry says : "Compared with the other regions of the Uni- 
ted States, the Peninsula of Florida has a climate wholly peculiar^ 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORID.^. 79* 

The lime, orauge and the fig find their genial temperature ; the 
course of vegetation is unceasing; culinary vegetables arc culti- 
vated in all seasons, and wild flowers spring up and flourish in the 
month of January ; and so little is the temperature of the lakes 
and rivers diminished during the winter months, that one may 
almost at any time bathe in their waters. The climate is so ex- 
ceedingly mild and uniform, that besides the vegetables of the 
Southern States generally, many of a tropical character arc; pro- 
duced. The palmetto, or cabbage palm, the live oak, the deciduous 
cypress, and some varieties of the pine are common farther north 
but the lignum vitae, mahogany, logwood, mangrove, cocoanut 
etc., are found only in the southern portion of the Peninsula. In 
contemplatiug the scenery of Florida in the month of January the 
Northern man is apt to forget that it is a winter landscape. To 
him all nature is changed ; even the birds of the air, the pelican 
and flamingo, indicate to him a climate entirely new." 

Such is the mildness of the climate and the humidity of the 
atmosphere, and the exemption from frost, that all the tropical 
fruits will grow in Southern Florida as far north as 27deg., thus 
affording a boundless field to the horticulturist for obtaining wealth 
and pleasure in their cultivation. 

As has been well expressed, it is an "evergreen land, in which 
wild flowers never cease to unfold their petals. " 

The positions in Southern Florida, on the gulf coast, are warmer 
in winter than those farther north. This is explained by the fact 
that the cold bleak northers which spread along the Atlantic coast, 
in crossing to the Gulf coast, become warmed bj^ the radiation of 
the whole peninsula, and all that is felt of them is their mild influ- 
ence ; so, also, of the cold winds from the northwest, from whence 
comes all our frosts and danger to early ^-^egetation, the radiation 
of warmth from the Gulf protects the peninsula. 

The health of the inhabitants of Florida is proverbial ; many 
can now be seen who are ninety years old and upwards. The only 
diseases there are the usual intermittent and remittent fevers, 
which occur to new settlers or those wiio are situated near swamps. 
It is the most favorable climate for puhnouary invalids on the 
western continent — instances have occurred where they were afraid 
to leave here. On examining the dead list, we find the chief dis- 
eases to be old age and consumption, the last being an exotic and 
not indi2:enous here. 



80 GUIDE TO SOUTHEKN GEORGIA AND FLOEIDA. 

FLOEIDA AS A HOME FOE INVALIDS. 

During nearly the whole year, and especially the summer 
months, the peninsula of Florida is favored with a cool and re- 
freshing sea breeze, which sets in from 9 to 12 o'clock in the day, 
and continues until sunset. This breeze is remarkably cool for the 
latitude, owing to the fact that the cooler waters of higher and 
colder latitudes are constantly thrown along down the Florida 
coast by the back current of the ever flowing G ulf stream, forming 
what may be termed a vast eddy, extending from Cape Hatteras 
to Cape Canaveral, and running, when not counteracted by adverse 
winds, at the rate of nearly two miles an hour. The cool tempera- 
ture of these waters is itself the cause of this never-failing breeze. 
Being some seven degrees colder than those of the Gulf of Mexico, 
as the sun rises, the atmosphere over the Gulf is sooner heated and 
rarified. This heated air rises and brings the cooler air of the 
Atlantic across the peninsula to supply the vacuum, thus forming 
a steady breeze during the warmer part of the day. 

The atmosphere of all tropical climates is, of course, more moist 
than in colder latitudes. But that of Florida is dryer in winter 
than at any other point onf the continent near the same latitude, 
for the reason that the winter is her dry season, while her wet or 
rainy season occurs in July or August, a time when the vegetation 
is growing and most needs rain. In Texas and New Mexico the 
reverse of this is true, bringing the cold and wet seasons together 
in winter, and the hot and dry in summer, making the winters 
more chilly and unhealthy, and the summers more malarious and 
sickly. 

It often occurs in Florida, that as many as thirty days pass con- 
secutively, when the air is perfectly clear and almost without a 
cloud. The healthfulness of a country like this, then, we shall 
infer from the following reasons : 

1st. The calcarious and antisceptic quality of the soil, which 
neutralizes and absorbs the malaria. 

2d. The pine forests, filling the air with their healthful aroma. 

3d. Its abundant sea surrounding— always a purifier of the au*. 

4 th. The coolness of the summer breeze and dryness and clear- 
ness of the winter air. 

5th. A.nd superadded to all, is the mild and friendly influence of 
her warmer climate. 

Now as to the results and effects of these natural advantages, let 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 81 

US quote briefly from those whose authority must be unquestion- 
able. 

General Lawson, Surgeon-General of the Army of the United 
States, in an official report, before the war, remarks : 

"The climate of Florida is remarkably equable and agreeable, 
being subject to fewer atmospheric variations, and its thermometer 
ranges much less than any other part of the United States, except 
a portion of the coast of California. For example, the winter at 
Fort Snelling, Minnesota Territory, is 48 degrees colder than at 
Fort Brooke, Florida; but the summer at Fort Brooke is only 
about eight degrees warmer. The mean annual temperature of 
Augusta, Ga., is nearly eight degrees, and that of Fort Gibson, 
Arkansas, upwards of ten degrees lower than at Tampa, yet in 
both these places the mean summer temperature is higher than at 
Fort Brooke, Tampa Bay. In the summer season the mercury 
rises higher in every part of the United States, and even in Canada, 
than it does along the coast of Florida. This is shown by mete- 
orological statistics in this Bureau. 

" As respects health, the climate of Florida stands pre-eminent. 
That the peninsula climate of Florida is much more salubrious 
than that of any other State in the Union, is clearly established by 
the medical statistics of the army. 

" Indeed, the statistics in this Bureau demonstrate the fact that 
the diseases which result from malaria are a much milder type in 
the peninsula of Florida than in any other State in the Union. 
These records show that the ratio of deaths to the number of cases 
^f remittent fever has been much less than among the troops serv- 
ing in any other portion of the United States. In the Middle 
Division of the United States, the proportion is one death to thirty- 
six cases of remittent fever ; in the Northern Division, one to fifty- 
two ; in the Southern Division, one to fifty- four ; in Texas, one to 
seventy-eight ; in California, one to one hundred and twenty-two ; 
in New Mexico, one to one hundred and forty-eight, while in 
Florida it is but one to two hundred and eighty-seven. In short, it 
may be asserted without fear of refutation, that Florida possesses 
a much more agreeable and salubrious climate than any other State 
or Territory in the Union." 

Dr. Byrne, late Surgeon in the United States Army, and long a 

resident of Florida, says : 

" It would seem paradoxical that the malarial diseases of East 
Florida (abounding as it does in rich hammock lands and exposed 
to a tropical sun), should generally be of a much milder form than 
those which prevail in more northern latitudes. That such, how- 
ever, is the fact, there can be no doubt, for this fact is proved by 
an aggregate of evidence (extending over more than twenty years) 
which it is impossible to resist. It is suggested, in explanation of 
this fact, that the luxuriant vegetation, which in the Southern and 
Middle States passes through all the stages of decomposition, is, 
in East Florida, generally dried up before it reaches the putre- 



82 GUIDE TO SOUTHEEN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 

factive stage of fermentation, and that consequently the quantity 
of malaria a^enerated is much less than in climates more favorable 
to_ decomposition. This view is strengthened by facts, that the 
soil of Florida is almost everywhere of so porous and absorbent a 
character that moisture is seldom long retained on its surface ; that 
its atmosphere is in constant motion, and that there is more clear 
sunshine than in the more northern States. 

"It is further suggested that the uniform prevalence of sea 
breezes and the constant motion of the atmosphere in the penin- 
sula, tend so much to diffuse and attenuate whatsoever poijon is 
generated, that it will generally produce but the mildest form of 
malarial disease, such as intermittent fever." 

Dr. Byrne, in another place remarks : 

* ' The winters are delightful, five days out of six being bright 
^nd cloudless, and of the most agreeable temperature. In the 
southern portion of the peninsula, frost is never felt. The winter 
resembles very much that season which in the Middle States is 
called Indian Summer, except that the sky is perfectly clear, and 
the atmosphere dry and elastic. Kain falls but rarely during the 
winter months; three, four, and. not unf requentl}^ five months of 
'bright, clear, cloudless days occur continually. This is one of the 
greatest charms of the winter climate in Florida. Contrary to 
~what might be expected, the summer weather of East Florida is 
anuch more agreeable, and its heat less oppressive than that which 
is experienced in the Middle ^^tates. This is owing to its being 
fanned by the breezes of the Atlantic on the east, and those of the 
<xulf of Mexico on the west, both of which can be distinctly felt 
in the centre of the State. Besides this, the northeast trade winds 
play over the whole peninsula. The summer nights are invariably 
cool, and even the hottest days are seldom oppressive in the shade. 

" In the summer season the mercury rises higher in every part 
of the United States than it does along the coast of Florida. Fre- ~ 
quent showers occur during the months of iS'arch, April, May and 
June, and about the first of July, what is termed the rainy season, 
commences, and continues till about the middle of September, 
Although it rains about every day during this season, it seldom 
rains all day. These rains fall in heavy showers, accompanied by 
thunder and lightning, and seldom last more than four hours. 
Indeed, they do not average more than one hour per day. They 
generall}^ commence about one o'clock, p. m., and are always over 
before five o'clock p. m., leaving for the remainder of the day a 
cloudless sky and a delightfully cool atmosphere." 



SPORTING ITEMS. 



CHARLOTTE HARBOR AND THE OALOOSAHATCHIE RIVER. 

This portion of Florida is almost terra incognita, and the first 
extended notice of it was published in the Forest and Stream and 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 83 

re-publislied iu Gamp Life in Florida. Having spent nearly two 
months in tlie region referred to, enjoyed the equable tempera- 
ture, balmy atmosphere, refreshing breezes, and unrivaled sport- 
ing attractions, we sincerely trust that the adventurous tourist 
and sportman may be induced to follow in our wake. Nearly 
three years have elapsed since we navigated Clear Water Harbor, 
Tampa, and Sarasota Pass, coasting the main land from 
Sarasota Pass to Gasparilla Pass, wandered among the islands 
of Charlotte Harbor, ascending the Caloosahatchie river to 
Fort Thompson, and succeeded in reaching the almost unknown 
lake — Ochechobee. Often has memory carried us back to the 
pleasant scenes of that trip, and we sometimes sigh for an oppor- 
tunity to revisit the many charming spots found en route., and to 
fight over again our battles with sharks, alligators, devil fish et al. 

Charlotte Harbor can be easily reached by small coasting vessels, 
varying from four to eight tons. Several vessels of this character 
comfortably fitted up for such purpose can be chartered from Dr. 
Macllvaiue and Captain Reddick, of Cedar Key. This place is the 
terminus of the Cedar Key and Feruandina Railroad, which con- 
nects at Baldwin with the Florida Central Railroad. With a cap- 
tain, one man, stove, bedding, cooking utensils, and one skiff, these 
vessels can be chartered at from five to six dollars per day. These 
crafts are of light draft, perfectly seaworthy, and will comfoitably 
accommodate from four to five tourists. If the voyageurs are 
fond of shooting and fishing, more boats would be required, and 
these could be ordered in advance of Mr. A. G. Chappell, boat 
builder, of Jacksonville, or through Dr. Macllvaine, of Cedar 
Key. Freight on a boat from Jacksonville to Cedar Key, one 
dollar and eighty cents per one hundred' pounds. 

Reaching Cedar Key we would advise parties to patronize the 
Island House, which has been remodeled and supplied with many 
home comforts. Charlotte Harbor can also be reached by taking 
the steamship T. J. Cochrane, leaving Cedar Key on Mondays and 
Fridays for Manatee and Tampa. The Cochrane is a new vessel, 
staunch and seaworthy ; her accommodations are excellent, and 
her oflicers will be found experienced and attentive to passengers. 
From information furnished us we have reason to believe that 
sportsmen could obtain boats at Tampa or Manatee for coasting 
purposes, but this could be determined in advance by addressing 
postmaster at the above named places or Captain James McKay, of 



^84 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA. AND FLORIDA. 

Tampa. As we intend referring more particularly to points further 
south, we shall not dilate upon the climatic advantages, hotel 
accommodations, or hospitality of the citizens of Tampa. 

Leaving Cedar Key and following the coast line, sportsmen 
should not fail to tempt the king fish opposite the Anclote Keys. 
By using one of James' strong " blue fish baits " and a strong line, 
excellent sport can be obtained. King fish range from five to 
twenty-five pounds, will fight to the last, and when cooked will be 
relished by all. Passing Tampa Bay, superior fishing will be 
found at Long Boat Inlet, and excellent fly fishing at Billy Bow- 
Legs Creek. At Sarasota Bay, Captain Willard will indicate to 
; sportsmen the habitats of all the scaly denizens of the neighbor- 
hood. But the Captain is a dangerous customer — hospitality is his 
most prominent characteristic — and he will capture and if possible 
detain sportsmen. Once in his clutches, they will find it difiicult 
to escape his hospitality and visit points further south. 

Parties can leave Sarasota Bay by Little Sarasota Pass. From 
this Pass to Little Gasparilla Pass, the northern entrance to Char- 
lotte Harbor, the distance is about thirty miles. On one occasion 
we left Little Sarasota Pass at 7 a. m., in a flat-bottomed sail-boat 
twenty feet long, and took the outside route to Charlotte Harbor. 
T'he wind died away, the ocean was like a mirror, but by manufac- 
turing a white-ash breeze Little Gasparilla Pass was entered next 
morning at daylight. 

If parties transport their own boat to Cedar Key by rail, and to 
Manatee by steamer, and she is not deemed safe for a trip outside 
of thirty miles. Little Sarasota Bay can be navigated and the party 
•could pass out to sea at Casey's Pass, and the distance much short- 
ened. About half-way from Casey's Pass to Gasparilla Pass, an 
inlet will be noticed, wiih a sand bank and a large growth of hard 
wood timber. This is Kettle Harbor, and it will be found an ex- 
cellent one. To the uninitiated we may remark that the Gulf is 
-entirely different from the Atlantic — the former is generally 
smooth and tranquil, and the ceaseless roar of the latter is absent. 
The coast is being constantly navigated by parties in boats which 
would be considered unsafe on many of our northern rivers. Un- 
less it was during the prevalence of a norther, we would not hesitate 
to navigate the coast from Cedar Key to Cape b'able in a sixteen- 
foot Whitehall boat. Along the coast the winds are usually light, 
-and if a sea rises it rapidly subsides. With the exception of the 



GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 85 

stretch between Casey's and Gasparilla Passes, the entire distance 
can be made inside of islands or reefs. 

If parties should hesitate about the outeide trip, they can work 
their way to the head of Little Sarasota Bay, and at this point it 
is possible for them to secure a wagon and team to transport their 
boat to the Meyakka river, a distance of eight miles. Descending 
the Meyakka to Charlotte Harbor, they can indulge in 'gaitor 
shooting and fishing. A boat for such a trip, and to be suitable 
for transportation, should be built light and modeled after a Dela- 
ware river batteau. She should be eighteen feet long, six feet 
wide, high sides, and decked over for at least eight feet forward. 
"With a canvas tarpaulin over a boom and fastened to strong screw- 
eyes in each quarter, such a craft would make a comfortable home 
for two or three persons. If supplied with a center-board and cat- 
rig, she would answer every purpose for navigating the bays, 
rivers and estuaries of the southwest coast. Instead of seats on 
each side and aft, moveable boxes could be constructed and used 
for the storage of arms, ammunition and provisions. At times, 
when cruising among mangrove islands and marshes, a difficulty 
will be experienced in finding a camping-place, and a small stove 
would be found very useful. In days gone by, we used one named 
the "Etna," manufactured in Philadelphia by Abbott & Noble. We 
were so much pleased with it that we have ordered another to be 
used this fall in a cruise from Cedar Key to Cape Pable. We would 
advise intending tourists to provide themselves with the two Gov- 
ernment charts showing Caloosa and Boca Grande entrances and 
harbors. 

Entering Little Gasparilla Pass, excellent sheep-heading will be 
found at all times inside the point, within a few feet of the water's 
edge. On an opposite bank, the gunnist can very soon secure suf- 
ficient snipe and curlews for a stew.- Leaving Gasparilla inlet, the 
channel keeps close to the island, but charts of the harbor will 
direct the voyagers to Punta Kassa at the southern portion of the 
harbor. 

At any of the entrances sheephead, groupers, sea trout, channel 
bass, and other sea fish, can be captured in numbers. The only 
bait necessary for sheephead are fiddlers, which can be dug up in 
great quantity along the edge of almost any sandy beach. For 
channel bass and trout, cut bait or hard backs will be all that will 
be required. If sportsmen are inclined to indulge in shark fishing,. 



86 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 

a fall supply of shark hooks and strong lines should be provided. 

Water is an important consideration to those who contemplate a 
cruise below Sarasota Bay, and every party should be provided 
with a shovel to dig tor it if such proceeding should be required. 
Water of fair quality can generally be found by digging from three 
to four feet deep on the bay side of most of the islands and to a 
distance of say twenty to fifty feet from the shore line. An exam- 
ination should never be made near mangrove bushes, for at these 
points the water is apt to be salt. On most of the islands will be 
found a dwarf-growing variety of the buttonwood, and near these 
trees is the place to look for fresh water. Water can be obtained 
from a lagoon in the center of Little Gasparilla Island, at the 
northerly end of LaCosta Island, on Pine Island, at a settlement 
opposite Useppa Island, on Useppa, at the foot of the mound on 
the northeast side of the island, and to the left of the landing. 

At the southern portion of Charlotte Harbor is Punta liassa — a 
signal station and telegraph office. About three miles from Punta 
Rassa will be found the mouth of the Caloosahatchie river. As. 
cending this wide and beautiful river about sixteen miles. Fort 
Myers will be noticed on the right hand bank. At this place three 
stores will be found where provisions can be obtained. Persons 
desiring information will meet with a hearty welcome by inter- 
viewing Col, Evans. Leaving the fort, the channel turns towards 
the left hand side of the river, and attention must be paid to its 
course. Three miles above the fort the islands will be reached, 
and a distance of three miles more will leave them in the rear. 
At the upper islands is the locality where the large 'gaitors most 
do congregate. From this point to the telegraph crossing a 
few miles above, cavilla, ranging from five to twenty pounds, 
can be captured with a spoon bait. Between these points tarpon 
exist in great numbers, and they will be seen to break water like 
blue fish. By anchoring where these fish are noticed, using a 
large bait cut from a mullet and fishing with a long and strong 
line and a float, these fish can be captured. They range from fifty 
to two hundred pounds, and when hooked there is rushing, jump- 
ing and fighting without end. The scales of these fish are very 
large and ornamental, and delicate fingers at home could convert 
them into beautiful card baskets and other ornaments. To those 

who are partial to fly fishing and who wish to engage in the cap- 
ture of the most powerful and gamiest of fish — the cavilla — they 
can be gratified between the islands and the telegraph crossing. 



- GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. ST 

The entire length of the river from its mouth to the rapids at. 
Fort Thompson is about one hundred and twenty miles, and, 
owing to the slight current, there will be no difficulty in rowing a 
boat the last eighty miles of its course. In the course of the upper 
portion of the river, deer hunting and turkey shooting may be 
found by penetrating a short distance from the river. In the im- 
mediate neighborhood of the falls, if the Indians are not, or have 
not been in camp, turkeys will be found in great numbers. If 
there is water sufficient, a boat can be dragged over the rapids, 
and an open channel will be found for a distance of about three 
miles tending towards Ocheechobee. In the course of this three 
miles excellent fishing and duck and 'gaitor shooting will be found. 

At Fish Eating creek, a distance about twelve miles from Fort 
Thompson, deer and turkey exist in great quantities, and it will 
be found a "sportsman's paradise." If persons Avish to camp out 
on Fish Eating creek, we would advise them to select a point a few 
miles above New Fort Centre. This entire section is an extensive 
prairie, with narrow belts of pine timber and clumps of live oak 
and cabbage palms. The nutricious grasses furnish food for im- 
mense numbers of deer, and the timber supplies them with the 
necessary shelter. Dogs are UEuecessary, and this is the home of 
the still hunter. The rich hammock lands on the bank of the creek 
are the favorite feeding grounds for turkeys. The creek is well 
supplied with bass, and the piscator would find employment. 

To reach Fish Eating creek and transport a boat and camp 
plunder, the services of Mr, Carleton will be required. If this 
gentleman's acquaintance is desired he can be found by following^ 
directions : t- tarting from the falls on the left bank of the river 
and skirting the timber next the river flat lands for two miles, 
Carleton's house will be noticed on a hill to the left. Mr. Carleton 
owns an excellent wagon and a good team of bullocks, and his. 
services can be obtained at three dollars per day. 

If adventure should become the order of the day (the larder 
justifying the proceeding), and the wanderers desirous of returning 
north by another route, they could descend Fish Eating creek to 
lake Ocheechobee. When we made the attempt we failed to reach 
the lake by the creek and wandered through the raw grass-marsh to 
it. We were provided with a lubberly Indian dug-out and apoligies 
for a paddle and pushing pole. We reached a point within two milea 
of the lake and found the channel blockaded with lettuce — afresh 
water plant that floats on the surface. We found it impossible to 
propel the boat through it with implements at our command. If 
the tourist should make the attempt, we would advise him to provide 
himself with two hooked sticks ten feet long. If one person would 
stand on each side of boat, near the shore, and both parties grap- 
ple the lettuce at the same time, the boat could be dragged over 
the obstruction. Jordan would be a hard road to travel, but the 
two or three miles of obstructm*e could be overcome, and the lake 



88 GUIDE TO SOUTHERN GEORGIA AND FLORIDA. 

reached. Owing to a violent gale to the eastward before our visit, 
the creek was obstructed, but it is probable that freshets have re- 
moved the obstructions. 

The lake reached, and its westerly shore followed for eighteen 
miles, the mouth of the Kissimme river will be noticed. By as- 
cending this tortuous stream for about three hundred miles Lake 
Tahopotaliga will be reached. The river runs through a prairie 
for nearly its entire course, and a sail can be used to advantage, as 
the prevailing winds are from the east and south. At Tahopo- 
taliga transportation can be obtained to Mellonville, on the St. 
John's river, a distance of thirty-five miles. Fishing, hunting and 
shooting along the entire course of the Kissimme will be found — 
all the sportsman can desire. One of our friends who descended 
this river in a sail boat counted 2,183 'gaitors sunning themselves 
along its banks. 

A few additional remarks may prove interesting. Rain seldom 
falls in this section during the winter, the climate is mild, and the 
whole country unexceptionally healthy. No trouble will be ex- 
perienced from insects if parties anchor mid-stream and sleep on 
their boat. Snakes are few and far between ; in all our wander- 
ings in Southern Florida we found but one rattler. Sporting mate- 
rial of every description can be purchased as cheap in Jackson- 
ville as they can in the North. Parties desiring a boat for such a 
trip, can have it constructed as cheaply in Jacksonville by A. G. 
Chappell as they can in the Northern cities. Having examined a 
number of boats built by him, and he having constructed for us a 
cruising boat for Florida waters, we have no hesitation in recom- 
mending him to the favorable notice of those who may desire boats 
built for Florida cruising. Parties disposed to spend any time at 
the headwaters of the Caloosahatchie or return north via the Kes- 
simme river, could have their supplies forwarded by team from 
Fort Myers to Fort Thompson, a distance of forty-five miles. 

If disposed, parties could reverse the procec ding, by ascending 
the St. John's river to Mellonville, take a team at that point to 
Tahoptaliga, and descend the river to Lake Ocheechobee. Several 
of our friends adopted this course, but failed to find the mouth of 
Fish Eating Creek. But we cannot discover any reason why the 
mouth of this stream should not be found. About eigliteen miles 
south of the mouth of the Kessimme river, a remarkable cypress 
tree will be noticed in the lake, a short distance from the marsh. 
The tree is very large, and on its south side it has a large branch 
growing horizontally and then vertically. From the statement of 
our Indian guide, Billy Osceola, the mouth of the creek is about 
one mile south of this tree. By sounding with a pole or oar along 
the edge of the marsh, the mouth of the creek could be easily de- 
tected, even though blockaded by lettuce. The creek could be as- 
cended to New Fort Centre, where a wagon road crosses the 
stream. From this point a messenger could tramp it a distance of 
twelve miles to Mr. Carleton's and transportation obtained for boat 
and plunder to Fort Thompson. 




ht«».,.J>M»T»l-JB«'«»»1i-;-r,.Wa«»^..i-..,H,^,^.yj»«»«..i«»iiiMi.i 



n il iii iimi i M iiii i iiiiii n imiir 




m m iins lo floia 



-"VUk. TIE^IE- 



tlml\i[ ami iulf Milr0HJ, 



Thereby avoiding the dangers of coast navigation, and the fre- 
quent detentions which steamer lines meet with at St. John's 
EiverBar, 

This is the only comfortable route for invalids. 

Tickets on sale at all Railroad Offices and by Steamship Lines 
from Boston, New York, Philadelphia and Baltimore. 

For further information apply to 

JAS. L. TAYLOR, 
Gen'l Freight and Passage Agent, Savannah, Ga. 

CD. OWENS, 
Gen'l Agent, 315 Broadway, New York. 

J. H. GRIFFIN, 
Passenger Agent, Savannah, Ga. 



ATLANTIC I GULF RAILROAD 



TO 



Albany, Hibernia, Mobile, 

Brunswick, Havana, New Orleans, 

Baldwin, Jacksonville, Orange Mills, 

Cedar Keys, Lake City, Palatka, 

Darien, Madison, Quincy, 

Enterprise, Monticello, St. Augustine, 

Fernandina, Mellonville, Tallahassee, 

Gainesville, Montgomery, '1 ampa. 

Green Cove Springs, Manatee, 

■^«^ » <» 

ST. J'OIE^lSr'S I=LI"V*E3I=l.. 

DISTANCE FROM JACKSONVILLE. 

To Black Point*. 5 Miles 

Mulberry Grove 12 

Mandarin (H. B. Stowe's place) 15 

Hibernia* 2^, 

Magnolia* .28 

Green Cove Springs* 30 

Hogarth's Wharf. 35 

Picolata 40 

Tocoi 49 

Federal Point..... 58 

Orange Mills. 63 

Palatka* 75 

Welaka 100 

Beecher. 10 1 

Mount Royal 128 

Georgetown 133 

Volusia 144 

Orange Bluff. . 147 

Hawkinsville* • 1 74 

Cabbage Bluff .-175 

Blue Spring 1 80 

Sanford* 204 

Mellonville* 205 

Silver Springs (Ocklawaha River) 210 

Sand Point (Indian River) 276 

*0n right side of river going up. 



